On Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report stating that there have been at least 1,300 flu deaths so far this season.
According to the analysis, there have been more than 2.6 million flu illnesses, with over 23,000 hospitalizations related to flu.
The report states that 10 children have died from the flu so far this season.
Public health officials have warned that flu is hitting the nation earlier this year, raising concerns that this year’s early flu could be a severe one.
Flu has spread significantly across many states, except Alaska, as of December 7, with widespread flu activity in 23 states. Medical providers in some states noted the highest level of flu activity this year.
The CDC said, “Flu activity is being caused mostly by influenza B/Victoria viruses, which is unusual for this time of year, and B strains tend to hit children particularly hard. Influenza A/H1N1 viruses are increasing in proportion relative to other flu viruses in some regions.”
The health agency says the signs and symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, muscle pain, body ache, headache, and fatigue. Most people who catch the flu become ill suddenly but recover within a few weeks. In some susceptible people, it could lead to pneumonia, requiring hospitalization.
Those who are at an increased risk of developing the complications of flu are treated with antiviral drugs. People who are at higher risk for flu complications include children under 5 years, older people, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems, or a history of asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
PCPs often recommend washing your hands regularly, staying away from sick people, and avoiding touching your mouth, eyes, and nose to prevent the flu. The CDC says it is extremely important to get vaccinated to stop seasonal flu. The vaccine will not prevent all flu cases but it will help lessen the duration and complexity of symptoms. People who catch the flu even after getting vaccinated are less likely to be hospitalized and less likely to develop complications.
