US doctors are on alert due to an increase in flu cases
In an unusual turn, US health officials are warning of a significant increase in flu cases that is affecting seven states and other regions of the country, much sooner than expected. Historically, flu season tends to peak in December or January, but this year, flu activity is increasing rapidly and worryingly in the southeast, south-central and southwest parts of the country.
States currently experiencing high or very high levels of flu cases are Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and South Carolina. Additionally, both the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have recorded elevated levels, with the latter being the epicenter of a recent flu epidemic declaration.
Michigan, on the other hand, shows minimal levels of flu activity on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) map. However, a closer look at the latest report from the “Michigan Disease Surveillance System” reveals a gradual increase in influenza cases. With Thanksgiving just a few days away, cases are expected to rise even further as people travel and gather to celebrate the holiday.
The predominant virus identified in this wave of cases is influenza type A, specifically H1N1, although some presence of influenza type B has also been detected. Although influenza type A generally manifests itself more mildly in the older population, which is typically more vulnerable to the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have already been about 780,000 flu cases so far this season, with more than 8,000 hospitalizations and 490 related deaths, including the tragic loss of a child.
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Although influenza type A appears to be less serious for older age groups, health experts urge the general population not to underestimate the risks. Other strains of flu can severely affect people of any age, highlighting the importance of flu vaccination. However, current statistics reveal that only about 35% of adults and 33% of children in the United States have received the vaccine.
The CDC emphasizes the need for vaccination as a crucial preventive measure, given that the flu vaccine is well suited to the strains currently circulating, suggesting that it should be effective in preventing infections or at least reducing the severity of illnesses. the illness.
With the holiday season quickly approaching, health authorities are urging people to get vaccinated against the flu as soon as possible, as the virus tends to spread more easily during this time of year. Additionally, people are advised to take additional precautions, such as washing hands frequently, maintaining social distancing, and wearing masks in risky situations.
As the situation evolves, health officials continue to closely monitor the spread of the flu and issue constant reminders about the importance of vaccination to protect the population and slow the spread of the virus in the community.
