CDC: US Flu Hospitalizations Highest Early-Season Level Since 2010
- flu hospitalizations have climbed to their highest level for this time of year since the 2010 season, driven by early-season viral activity that tracks about four weeks ahead...
- Although activity has risen in various parts of the country, overall flu activity remains relatively low throughout the United States.
- The current rate of hospitalizations for the week matches levels not seen since the 2009-10 season, which occurred during the H1N1 swine flu pandemic.
U.S. flu hospitalizations have climbed to their highest level for this time of year since the 2010 season, driven by early-season viral activity that tracks about four weeks ahead of recent flu seasons. Data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that positive flu tests, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations have been increasing since late August and early September.
Although activity has risen in various parts of the country, overall flu activity remains relatively low throughout the United States. Louisiana and Hawaii are reporting moderate levels of activity, while the remaining states report low or minimal levels. Among hospitalizations, adults above age 65 have the highest rate, followed by adults ages 50 to 64 and children ages 0 to 4. Pharmacy data from Walgreens indicates that states with some of the highest levels currently include California, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, and Washington.
Hospitalization Rates and Early Trends
The current rate of hospitalizations for the week matches levels not seen since the 2009-10 season, which occurred during the H1N1 swine flu pandemic. Pharmacy data tracking tests, prescription antivirals, and over-the-counter purchases suggests the season is running about four weeks ahead of schedule. Sales for common cold and flu products are up 17% year over year, while cough drops have risen 13%, tea bags 18%, and at-home COVID and flu tests 11%.
CDC Guidance and Vaccine Recommendations
The CDC is actively tracking notable mutations in flu viruses to monitor any potential impact on illnesses. According to the agency, It is too early to know what viruses may predominate or to say whether there might be implications [for] flu vaccine effectiveness this season.
The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccine, noting that adults aged 65 and older are eligible for a higher-dose version. Prescription antiviral drugs are also available to help treat flu illness by reducing the severity and length of sickness, and they prove most effective when started as early as possible.