The number of flu cases increases in the US

• Flu Cases Rising Alarmingly in the US
• Low Vaccination Rates Worry Experts
• Could Holiday Gatherings Worsen the Situation?

Flu season is underway in the United States, with a concerning surge in reported cases over the past few weeks.

Health officials are warning about the virus’s rapid spread across the country, with states like Tennessee and Louisiana experiencing significant impacts.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there has been a notable rise in lab-confirmed cases and emergency room visits.

Alicia Budd, a CDC expert, stated, «We are definitely in flu season,» noting that while the increase has been steady, some states have seen explosive growth.

FLU CASES ON THE RISE IN THE US

In Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. William Schaffner from Vanderbilt University reported that up to a quarter of patients at local clinics are presenting with flu symptoms.

Meanwhile, Dr. Catherine O’Neal of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Louisiana described the situation as critical.

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She cited increased absences from work due to illness.

Although the flu is dominating attention, the CDC highlights other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Other Respiratory Viruses Adding to Concerns

Hospitalizations for COVID-19 have decreased since the summer, though activity remains high in the Midwest.

RSV hospitalizations, which initially surpassed those for the flu, appear to have stabilized.

Nationally, RSV activity is low but remains elevated in the southern U.S.

Experts warn that these viruses, alongside the flu, could pose significant challenges during the winter season, especially as holiday gatherings facilitate their spread.

Low Vaccination Rates Raise Alarm and Worsen Flu Cases Increase

A major concern for experts is the low rate of flu vaccination, particularly among children.

The CDC reports that as of December 7, only 41% of children and adults have been vaccinated against the flu, a similar level to last year but with a decline among minors.

Last winter’s prolonged flu season resulted in 28,000 deaths related to the virus, with most pediatric fatalities involving unvaccinated children.

This year could prove even more severe if vaccination rates do not improve, Budd warned.

Vaccination Gaps Pose Health Risks

COVID-19 vaccination rates are even lower, with just 21% of adults and 11% of children up to date on their shots.

Experts urge people to get vaccinated as soon as possible to protect themselves against respiratory viruses.

Dr. Schaffner emphasized that holiday celebrations could exacerbate the spread of the flu and other illnesses.

«These gatherings are heartfelt and joyous but also a prime opportunity for respiratory viruses to spread from person to person,» he noted.

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