Christmas brought a surge in flu and respiratory illnesses across the United States, with more than half of the states reporting widespread sickness before the New Year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data on Friday, revealing that holiday gatherings may contribute to the continued spread of these illnesses in the coming weeks.
According to the CDC, 38 states reported high or very high levels of respiratory illnesses with symptoms such as fever, cough, and other related symptoms. This marked an increase from the previous week when 31 states reported similar levels of sickness. The data encompasses various illnesses, including COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and other viruses, but the flu saw the most significant rise in cases.
During the week of December 24, there was an uptick in positive lab tests for influenza, accounting for 17.5% of all tests conducted. While the current flu season is considered moderate compared to previous years, Alicia Budd, the team lead of the CDC’s National Surveillance and Outbreak Response Team, warned that elevated flu activity is expected for several more weeks.
Interpreting flu reports during and after the holiday season can be challenging due to factors such as increased travel, school closures, and reduced likelihood of seeking medical care. Nonetheless, the latest findings from the CDC’s Influenza-like Illness Activity Level Indicator demonstrate a rise in flu activity.
Although COVID-19-related deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency room visits also increased during the same period, the numbers were not as high as in the past. However, COVID-19 remains a more significant concern, leading to more hospitalizations than the flu, as indicated by CDC data.
A recent variant of the coronavirus, known as JN.1, has become the dominant strain in the United States, accounting for approximately 61% of cases. The CDC revealed this data on Friday and clarified that while there is no evidence suggesting JN.1 causes more severe illness, it may be more easily transmissible.
Identifying the difference between flu and COVID-19 symptoms can be challenging, as both illnesses share similar signs and can range from mild to severe. The CDC advises individuals experiencing symptoms to get tested. Common symptoms shared by both diseases include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, and headache.
With the ongoing rise in COVID-19 and flu cases, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and follow preventive measures to protect themselves and others. This includes practicing good hygiene, wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and getting vaccinated against the flu.
Despite the moderate flu season so far, health experts anticipate elevated flu activity for the coming weeks. It is essential to stay informed, seek medical care if necessary, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the spread of flu and respiratory illnesses amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
