The US is experiencing a record flu season, with 12 states classified as “high” and two states, Oregon and Louisiana, showing “very high” levels of influenza. According to the CDC’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report, this marks nearly triple the numbers from the previous week.
The CDC reported that about 41% of Americans aged 18+ received the influenza vaccine this year, while only 28% of children in Louisiana received the vaccine, compared to roughly 48% nationally. A surge in flu cases is also hitting the Nashville area, with positivity rates rising a staggering 92% from the previous week.
Experts warn that flu levels may continue to rise after the holidays, especially since an additional 11 states are currently in the “moderate” category. The CDC has confirmed over 1.9 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and 970 deaths from flu so far this season.
The agency recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive their flu vaccination to prevent further spread of the virus. With the holiday season approaching, it’s not too late to get vaccinated and protect oneself against the flu.
Source: https://bestlifeonline.com/flu-levels-dec-23-2024