Why is Maryland seeing so many flu deaths this season?

Maryland has recorded 41 flu deaths this season, a significant increase attributed to the aggressive H3N2 strain of Influenza A and lower vaccination rates.

What is H3N2 and why is it causing a severe flu season?

H3N2 is a strain of Influenza A known to be harder for the immune system to detect, leading to more severe illness and a tougher flu season.

Are Maryland hospitals requiring masks again due to the flu?

Yes, in response to high respiratory illness activity, the Maryland Health Department recommended masking, and many hospitals have reinstated policies for staff, patients, and visitors.

Home / Health / Maryland Flu Deaths Surge: 41 Recorded This Season

Maryland Flu Deaths Surge: 41 Recorded This Season

19 Jan

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Summary

Maryland has seen a drastic rise in flu deaths, reaching 41 this season.
The H3N2 Influenza A strain is identified as the primary driver of the surge.
Hospitals in Maryland are reinstating masking policies due to high illness activity.

Maryland Flu Deaths Surge: 41 Recorded This Season

Maryland has recorded a stark increase in flu-related deaths this season, reaching 41 fatalities compared to seven earlier in the year. This surge aligns with national trends, where the U.S. has seen millions of illnesses and hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations. The H3N2 strain of Influenza A is reportedly fueling this intense flu season, presenting a greater challenge for the immune system.

Compounding the severity, vaccination rates in Maryland are lower this year, with most counties falling between 16% and 36%. Health officials noted this decline in vaccination, alongside the aggressive H3N2 strain, as key factors. To address the high level of respiratory illness activity across the state, the Maryland Health Department recommended hospitals implement masking policies in early January.