Each year we expect an outbreak of influenza. Flu has been less frequent in the last couple of years due to measures begun to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that those measures are declining, flu is making a comeback.
The CDC estimates that 880,000 people have gotten a flu-like illness so far; 6,900 people have been hospitalized; and 360 people have died from it. This rate of infection and hospitalization is the highest since the 2010-2011 flu season.
The majority of flu cases this year are due to influenza A (H3N2). Very few have been due to influenza B. The greatest number of cases are from the Southeast and South-Central parts of the country. However, it is rapidly spreading North.
The CDC recommends that people age 6 months or more receive the flu vaccine. The vaccine can be given at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine. Getting vaccinated is the best protection against getting a severe case of the flu.
In addition, using protective measures such as frequent hand washing, everyone covering their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing by use of a handkerchief or coughing/ sneezing into their elbow, and wearing a mask when around others who may be carrying the flu virus.
If you do catch the flu, there are 4 different medications that a doctor can prescribe to shorten the course of the illness These medicines must be started as soon as possible after onset of the flu.
Stay safe and be well.
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
