Flu cases are surging as holiday travel and gatherings continue, with the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicating at least 4.6 million flu illnesses reported this season. As of December 19, 2023, there have been approximately 49,000 hospitalizations and 1,900 deaths attributed to the flu, with health experts warning these figures are expected to rise.
The rise in flu cases is largely linked to a new variant known as subclade K, which is a strain of the H3N2 virus, a subtype of influenza A that has been prevalent in other countries since the summer. According to the CDC, 89% of the 163 samples of H3N2 viruses collected since September 28 were identified as subclade K. This increase in flu activity has raised concerns, particularly as holiday gatherings are anticipated to exacerbate the spread.
In New York State, health officials have reported the highest number of flu cases recorded in a single week since reporting became mandatory in 2004. The state saw a staggering 38% increase in reported cases, rising from 51,365 infections the previous week to a total of 189,312 cases. Hospitalizations also surged, climbing by 63%, from 2,251 to 3,666 weekly admissions according to data from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).
Dr. Darien Sutton, a board-certified emergency medical physician and medical correspondent for ABC News, commented on the situation, stating, “The emergency room has been busy, and we’ve been following these numbers.” He emphasized the importance of recognizing the seriousness of the flu and mentioned that many patients are coming in feeling severely ill, often mistaking their symptoms for something other than the flu.
This year’s flu season has already led to three pediatric deaths, a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with influenza. Last season, the U.S. recorded 288 deaths among children due to the flu, a figure that equaled the number of child fatalities during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Notably, around 90% of children who died last year were unvaccinated, underscoring the critical importance of vaccination.
Public health experts continue to advocate for preventive measures, including vaccination, hand hygiene, and wearing masks, especially for those at higher risk of serious complications. The CDC notes that receiving an annual flu shot can prevent millions of illnesses and numerous doctor visits each year.
As the flu season intensifies, it is clear that both individuals and healthcare systems must remain vigilant. Dr. Sutton reiterated, “The flu is so much more than a simple cold,” highlighting the need for public awareness and proactive health measures during this challenging season.
