What is the current severity of the flu season in the US?

The US is experiencing its worst flu season in over two decades, with millions of cases and thousands of deaths reported.

Are doctors prescribing enough antivirals for the flu?

No, experts indicate that antiviral medications are being significantly underutilized, even for hospitalized patients who could benefit.

When is the flu season expected to end in the US?

The current flu season has not yet peaked and cases are expected to continue through May.

Home / Health / Flu Season Overwhelms US: Millions Sick, Thousands Dead

Flu Season Overwhelms US: Millions Sick, Thousands Dead

14 Jan

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Summary

Over 15 million flu cases and 7,400 deaths reported in US.
Antiviral medication use is significantly lower than recommended.
Flu season is still ongoing and may last until May.

Flu Season Overwhelms US: Millions Sick, Thousands Dead

The United States is currently experiencing an unusually severe flu season, marking the worst in more than twenty years. This outbreak has led to over 15 million reported cases and at least 7,400 fatalities. Health experts are raising concerns about the underutilization of prescription antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu, which are effective in reducing flu symptoms and recovery time.

Recent assessments indicate a concerning trend of underprescribing these vital treatments, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 2022 to 2023 showed that approximately half of hospitalized children and two-thirds of those with outpatient visits did not receive recommended antiviral therapy. This points to missed opportunities for preventing severe flu complications, especially among high-risk groups like the very young and the elderly.

Several factors contribute to this underutilization, including delays in test results and the critical two-day window for optimal treatment efficacy. While starting antivirals later can still offer benefits, particularly for those with underlying health conditions, concerns about side effects may also influence prescribing habits. Experts urge healthcare providers to increase their use of antivirals as a crucial secondary defense against the flu.