At a Glance
- The nationwide hospitalization rate jumped 14.3%, with 9,900 people admitted.
- 89.8% of 216 influenza A viruses since Sept. 28 belong to the subclade K strain.
- 42% of U.S. adults and 41% of children received flu shots this season.
- Why it matters: The surge and missing vaccine strain raise concerns for a tough flu season.
According to News Of Austin, cases of the flu continue to mount.
Health officials have recorded the first pediatric flu-related deaths of the season, and some states are seeing much higher activity than others.
Flu hospitalizations and geographic spread
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data Friday showing a 14.3% rise in flu-related hospitalizations nationwide. Over 9,900 people were admitted, and the map highlights high activity in Colorado, Louisiana, and New York. Other states reporting very high levels include New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Louisiana, with additional hotspots in New Mexico, Idaho, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Washington D.C., Connecticut, Maryland, and Massachusetts.
**Dr. Andrew Pekosz stated:
> “Colorado, Louisiana and New York are [states] that are experiencing really fast increases in influenza,”
The CDC notes that the map is based on the proportion of healthcare visits for influenza-like illness and does not measure geographic spread, so a single city outbreak can make an entire state appear high.
The missing vaccine strain
Pekosz says the data shows that the “super flu” strain, or subclade K, is spreading everywhere influenza is. Lab tests found that 89.8% of 216 influenza A viruses collected since Sept. 28 were positive for subclade K, according to the CDC. This strain, historically the deadliest for older people, is not included in this year’s vaccine, raising worries about a severe season.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Viruses tested | 216 |
| Subclade K positivity | 89.8 % |
Vaccination coverage
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual vaccination, and public health experts say it’s not too late. About 42 % of U.S. adults and 41 % of children have gotten flu shots this season, according to CDC data. The shots may not prevent all symptoms but can reduce severe infections; a preliminary U.K. analysis suggests this year’s shot is effective.
Key Takeaways
- Flu hospitalizations rose 14.3% to 9,900 admissions nationwide.
- The subclade K strain accounts for 89.8% of recent influenza A viruses.
- 42 % of adults and 41 % of children are vaccinated, but the missing vaccine strain could worsen the season.
The emerging flu trends underscore the need for continued vigilance and vaccination as the season approaches its peak in February.
News Of Austin contributed to this report.
