While flu activity slightly decreased in the past week, the respiratory virus season continues to persist in the United States.
The onset of the new year in the United States has brought about a surge in respiratory illnesses, with elevated levels of flu, Covid-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) prevalent throughout most regions. Recent data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a temporary dip in some measures of flu activity in early January. However, experts caution against interpreting this as a sustained trend, predicting further increases in the coming weeks.
Janet Hamilton, Executive Director of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists, explains that the holiday season typically witnesses a brief decline in illness rates, as people delay seeking medical care and encounter various pathogens during holiday travel. Anticipating heightened respiratory virus activity, she emphasizes the need for continued vigilance.
During the week ending January 6, respiratory virus activity was deemed high or very high in nearly all states, as per the CDC. The agency’s Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics consistently forecasts a respiratory disease season likely to result in hospitalization rates similar to the previous season. While current hospital capacity is generally stable, some regions report strain on resources due to an uptick in respiratory illnesses.
Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, underscores that there is still a significant portion of the respiratory virus season ahead. Despite flu surpassing Covid-19 in emergency room visits last month, both viruses continue to contribute to rising hospitalizations.
Flu has caused an estimated 14 million illnesses, 150,000 hospitalizations, and 9,400 deaths this season, overtaking Covid-19 in emergency room visits. Covid-19 hospitalizations have more than doubled since November, with nearly 36,000 new hospitalizations reported during the week ending January 6.
While Covid-19 infections are less severe due to increased immune protection from vaccination and prior infection, wastewater surveillance indicates high viral activity. Experts caution against complacency, urging the public to remain vigilant.
The CDC emphasizes the continued benefits of getting a flu shot this season. Despite less than half of the US population having received the flu shot, the vaccine has proven effective, with early data from Canada indicating strong protection. The vaccine’s effectiveness exceeds 60% against the predominant influenza A strain in the US, offering even greater protection for children under 10. However, less than 1 in 5 adults and fewer than 1 in 10 children have received the latest Covid-19 vaccine.
Dr. Schaffner encourages individuals to get vaccinated promptly and emphasizes the importance of wearing masks in crowded settings. Despite the familiarity with these viruses, preparedness remains crucial for personal and family well-being.
