Flu activity increases again
An early update on the continued rise in activity
I normally published Outbreak Outlook on Mondays, but when I saw the flu data released this week, I knew I had to send out a quick update.
Last week, I wrote that influenza-like illness had made an unexpected rebound, reaching 7% of the visits for fever and cough or sore throat. Well, it went up again this week, to 7.8%.
This is the highest level since 2002, though the 2009-2010 and 2003-2004 seasons come close.
Trends by region
Most of the Southern region and parts of the Northeast are experiencing very high levels of activity.
Texas, Tennessee, South Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Ohio all have outpatient ILI above 10%.
New York City (not shown) is the highest of them all at 12.8%.
Trends by age
As usual, children under 4 years old are experiencing the highest rates of illness at 16.9% ILI, a marked increase from 16.2% the previous week. School-age children and young adults (5-24 years) also show high activity at 11.9%, up from almost a whole point from last week.
Working-age adults (25-49 years) are experiencing moderate activity at 6.5% (this is still high!), while older adults show progressively lower rates, with those 50-64 years at 4.9% and those 65 and older at 3.2%. All age groups are seeing increases compared to the previous week.
However, it’s older adults who are at greatest risk of severe illness. Hospitalization rates are highest in people ages 75+, followed by the 65-74 age group.
Preventing influenza
To prevent influenza transmission, wear a well-fitting mask (like an N95 or KN95) in crowded indoor spaces during flu season. Ventilate indoor spaces by opening windows when possible and using HEPA air filters. When indoors with others, choose larger spaces with good airflow and limit time in crowded settings like packed restaurants or public transit during peak flu activity. These ventilation and crowding measures work alongside basic precautions like getting vaccinated, washing hands frequently, and staying home when sick.
If you do get infected, antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), or baloxavir (Xofluza) can help reduce symptom severity and duration when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. These medications work by preventing the virus from replicating, though they don't cure the infection.
In addition to antivirals, treatment focuses on managing symptoms through rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications for fever and pain. Most healthy people recover within 1-2 weeks with supportive care.
I will have more for you on Monday, during my regular update. Stay well!
Thank you for this!
As someone (55) who had it last week, Flu A is all the horrible things! Still congested and tired. Am vaccinated and can’t imagine if I was not. Really hope we take a nose dive soon. Thank you for all your hard work especially since the numbers are not being reported!