UPDATE: The flu season is intensifying across the United States as health officials report a significant surge in cases of the H3N2 strain. This urgent development comes as the holiday season approaches, raising concerns about potential hospitalizations and community spread.
According to the CDC, the flu positivity rate has jumped by nearly 3% in just the last week, with over 2,300 hospitalizations reported nationally. With more Americans gathering indoors and traveling for the holidays, experts warn that the situation could escalate rapidly.
Infectious Disease Epidemiologist Catherine Troisi stated, “The fact that we’re seeing more H3N2 overall means we’re probably in for a rougher season.” The uptick in cases coincides with the onset of flu season, traditionally marked by increased transmission as people spend more time together indoors.
In Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) confirms a noticeable rise in emergency room visits, reporting 55 flu hospitalizations this season. This new strain is genetically different from the virus covered by the current vaccine, which means vaccinated individuals can still contract and spread H3N2.
Troisi emphasized the community’s lack of immunity to this strain, stating, “Because we as a community don’t have as much immunity to it, more people are getting sick.” Although the H3N2 strain does not appear to cause more severe disease at this point, the sheer number of cases could lead to increased hospital care during the critical holiday period.
Past flu seasons have shown a spike in cases post-Thanksgiving and Christmas, a trend that experts are closely monitoring. Troisi cautioned that the current vaccination rate in Michigan is alarmingly low, with just over 20% of residents having received their flu shots. “Fewer people getting the vaccine means that there are going to be higher rates of flu infection,” she noted, highlighting the importance of vaccination to protect community health.
As the flu season unfolds, health officials urge everyone to consider getting vaccinated as the best line of defense against the virus. With the H3N2 strain on the rise, the next few weeks are critical for controlling the spread and minimizing hospitalizations.
Stay informed and share this vital information with friends and family to help combat the flu this season.
