The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on 12/12 an 8% increase in positive flu virus tests nationwide last week. The CDC estimates approximately 2.9 million people have been infected this flu season, with about 1,200 deaths.
The CDC categorized several states at a more severe level on its flu spread assessment scale. According to the latest data as of 6/12, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, and Louisiana are experiencing a "high" level of virus transmission.
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CDC headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, US. *Reuters* |
New York City was classified at the most severe level, with a "very high" level of flu virus spread.
Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, Michigan, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, and Puerto Rico also reported increased flu cases, categorized as "moderate".
This year's flu season is largely dominated by a new variant of the flu virus, known as clade K. This clade belongs to the influenza A H3N2 strain, historically associated with higher hospitalization and mortality rates.
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The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination, stating it has distributed 127 million vaccine doses to date.
The flu situation in the US is expected to worsen in the coming period, peaking between January and March next year.
Duc Trung (According to Hill, AP)
