A report by the Centers for Disease Control shows influenza is now widespread in every state except Hawaii. Almost 75,000 cases have been reported so far. That doesn’t include patients who treat their symptoms at home and never seek medical care.
The CDC blames the flu for killing 30 children this season. Adult deaths are not tracked, but estimated to be higher than usual. The high flu activity is attributed to the prevalence of the H3N2 flu, this year’s most common form of flu. H3N2 is associated with more severe illness, especially among children and the elderly. Flu seasons during which H3 viruses are prevalent are usually worse and come with more hospitalizations and deaths.
Please stop by today to get your flu shot, if you haven’t done so. It is never too late!