Those numbers are expected to increase in coming weeks, the state department of public health said in a news release Friday.
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During the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) update of the influenza situation in the USA to date on Friday, the issue of vaccines was a major topic.
Iowa health officials have reported eight more influenza-related deaths, bringing the state total to 14 since October 1st.
It’s unclear, yet, if that type of severity will appear here, Jernigan said.
Flu is now widespread in all US states, except Hawaii. And while flu activity may be nearing its peak, Jernigan warned there will still be several weeks of activity, which will likely see more infections caused by influenza B strains. The influenza vaccine is typically more effective against influenza B, which reiterates how important it is for New Yorkers to get vaccinated.
During last year’s flu season, there were 12,912 flu-related hospitalizations and eight pediatric deaths in NY. Some hospitals in California have been so overwhelmed that they had to send patients to other ERs.
Downey is the second OH child who has died from the flu.
“This flu season is going to be worse than a year ago”, said Coliseum Medical Centers Director of Infection Prevention, Brandi Jones.
The percentage of hospital admissions due to pneumonia also have risen above the 4 percent baseline statewide, officials say.
A Nurse Practitioner at San Angelo Community Medical Center, said, “About 50 percent of people that we are testing are testing positive for flu, but 50 percent of the people testing negative could still be positive for the flu”.
“No vaccination is 100 percent”, Lauer said, adding it’s better to have some protection than none at all.
The influenza activity level in Kentucky is reported as “widespread” for the third consecutive week, according to the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
“One of the great things about the vaccine is even if you get the flu and you’ve been vaccinated, it could really reduce your symptoms”, said Stoughton.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there’s still plenty of flu season to endure, and it’s not too late to get a vaccine.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
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Cover your nose and mouth with the crook of your arm when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to use when soap and water are not available.
