Synopsis
Flu cases are surging throughout the US, resulting in school closures and a shift to remote learning. The CDC reports millions of illnesses, thousands of hospitalizations, and pediatric fatalities. As the flu spreads, the US faces a quad-demic with other viruses, highlighting the importance of vaccination and symptom management.Key Takeaways
- Flu cases are surging in the US.
- Schools are canceling classes or going remote.
- CDC reports millions of illnesses and deaths.
- High hospitalization rates continue.
- Vaccination is crucial for prevention.
Los Angeles, Feb 8 (NationPress) Flu cases are rapidly increasing across the United States, leading several schools to cancel in-person classes or transition to remote learning.
As per the latest estimates from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released on Friday, there have been at least 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths attributed to the flu this season in the United States.
According to the CDC, seasonal influenza activity remains elevated and continues to rise throughout the nation.
In the most recent week ending February 1, ten pediatric deaths associated with influenza were reported, bringing the total to 57 pediatric fatalities so far this season, according to CDC.
This week, more than 48,000 patients were admitted to hospitals due to influenza.
Notably, a human case of an influenza A (H1N2) variant virus was reported, marking it as the first human infection from a variant influenza virus during the 2024-2025 season in the United States, as noted by the CDC.
Currently, at least 45 states and jurisdictions are experiencing "high or very high" flu activity. Data from the CDC indicate that emergency room visits due to influenza are now considered "very high" nationwide.
The levels of influenza seen across the nation are now the highest since the peak of the 2009 swine flu pandemic, coinciding with this winter's second wave of the virus, as reported by CBS, referencing CDC figures.
Several schools across the country are either canceling classes or shifting to online learning due to the surge in respiratory illnesses, according to the Xinhua news agency.
Influenza viruses are among various pathogens contributing to increased respiratory disease activity.
Simultaneously, the United States is contending with waves of norovirus, Covid-19, and RSV, collectively termed a "quad-demic".
The World Health Organization states that seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses and is prevalent worldwide. Most individuals recover without treatment.
Influenza spreads easily when individuals cough or sneeze. The best preventive measure is vaccination.
Influenza symptoms include a sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
Treatment primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms. Individuals suffering from the flu should rest and stay hydrated. Most people will recover within a week, though medical attention may be necessary for severe cases or those with risk factors.
