Flu season is expected to hit the United States soon, with the latest CDC map showing higher rates of flu infections in several states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s weekly influenza surveillance report found that Washington, D.C., Louisiana, Oregon, California, Arizona, and New Jersey have the highest rates of flu.
According to Carrie Reed, chief of the Epidemiology and Prevention Branch of the CDC’s Influenza Division, flu activity is starting to pick up for the season. She attributes this to the holiday season and winter months, when people are more likely to be indoors and in close contact with others.
The CDC recommends that everyone over six months get an annual flu vaccine to reduce the severity of flu and prevent hospitalizations and deaths. Reed emphasizes the importance of vaccination before peak flu season, as it takes a few weeks for the immune response to kick in.
In addition to vaccination, Reed advises maintaining good hygiene practices, staying away from people when sick, and staying home from work to avoid getting the flu. As flu season approaches, experts warn that hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths are expected every year.
With flu season on the horizon, it’s essential to take proactive steps to stay healthy during the winter months. The CDC provides guidance on preventing the spread of influenza, and Newsweek will continue to provide updates and expert advice as more information becomes available.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/flu-season-cdc-map-reveals-influenza-rates-2001610