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US Flu Cases Surge to Unprecedented Levels
20 Feb
Summary
- Flu season sees highest doctor visits since 1997.
- Adults 65+ and children under two face higher risks.
- Hundreds of thousands hospitalized annually with flu.
The United States is experiencing its most severe flu season on record, with doctor's visits for flu-like symptoms reaching unprecedented levels. Data, collected by a national surveillance network since 1997, indicates this season has surpassed all previous years.
Flu-like illness is defined by symptoms including fever, cough, or sore throat. While the average season sees about 8% of the US population fall ill, this year's rates are significantly higher. Children are more likely to contract the flu, but adults aged 65 and older, along with children under two years old, are at a greater risk for serious complications.
Beyond doctor visits, the impact is also seen in hospitalizations. Hundreds of thousands of individuals are hospitalized annually due to influenza. The cumulative hospitalization rate tracks confirmed flu cases per 100,000 people, highlighting the significant public health burden of this ongoing season. Data is preliminary and subject to revision as more reports are received.
