According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, influenza activity is currently “high” across the state. From the week of Jan. 4 to Jan. 10, 498 cases of influenza were reported in Boston. While cases have decreased in past weeks, they are still persistent with 158 cases reported during the week of Jan. 18 to Jan. 24. With data through Jan. 17, the state of Massachusetts has reported 193 deaths in the current flu season, including six pediatric influenza deaths.
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Common symptoms include cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, headache, fatigue and nasal congestion. The virus is spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with surfaces or infected individuals. According to the Cleveland Clinic, influenza is “one of the most common infectious diseases,” with an estimated 20-40 million cases per season. Flu season typically runs through October through May in the Northern Hemisphere.
Across the United States, more than 15 million cases of influenza have been recorded this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Two types of influenza, A and B, are regularly identified as the cause of the flu season. Last year in the fall, a new variant strain of influenza, subclade K, was identified. It is being referred to as the ‘super flu‘ due to its association with “more severe symptoms and more severe cases,” according to the Stanford Medicine News Center. Experts report that this strain accounts for a major portion of reported infections this year.
With data showing a concerning flu season, it is important to stay safe and prioritize health. According to the CDC, the “most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccine each year.” Additionally, avoid close contact with individuals who you know are sick and practice proper hygiene. If you are feeling sick, it is best to stay home and get tested.
