A new map released by the CDC highlights the severity of the current flu season, which is the most intense in at least 15 years. States with the highest ILI activity are facing significant disruptions, including school closures.
New Mexico, Texas, Nebraska, Tennessee, and South Carolina are among the states with the highest number of influenza-like illness ( ILI ) symptoms, according to a new map released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ). This map, part of the CDC 's most recent Influenza Surveillance Report for the week ending February 1st, highlights the severity of the current flu season, which has reached unprecedented intensity and is considered the most severe in at least 15 years.
The CDC reported on Friday that the percentage of doctor's office visits attributed to flu-like symptoms surpassed peaks observed in any previous winter flu season since 2009-2010. The widespread impact of the flu has led to significant disruptions across the nation, including school closures. For example, the Godley Independent School District in Texas had to shut down for three days last week due to a high number of student and staff absences caused by the flu. Jeff Meador, a district spokesman, described it as the worst flu season he could recall.The states experiencing the most doctor visits in the week ending February 1st include New Mexico, Texas, Nebraska, Tennessee, South Carolina, Ohio, Michigan, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York City. These areas have all reported 'very high' ILI activity levels. States and cities like Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, Oregon, and Washington follow closely behind with 'high' ILI activity. Meanwhile, Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Nevada fall into the 'high' category. Utah is classified as 'moderate,' while Wyoming and West Virginia are in the 'low' category. Montana, Alaska, and Hawaii are among those with 'minimal' activity.It's important to note that the CDC's map tracks visits to doctors for ILI symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat. These visits don't necessarily represent confirmed influenza cases as the map may also capture visits for other respiratory viruses. During the week ending February 1st, a total of 4,377 viruses were reported by public health laboratories. Dr. Donald Dumford, an infectious disease specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, advises, 'I always like to reiterate that if you have the flu, stay home from work or school and isolate yourself from your family as much as possible until fever-free for 24 hours (without fever-reducing medications) and your symptoms are starting to improve.' The CDC emphasizes on its website that 'Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.' Health officials continue to monitor two predominant strains of seasonal flu—Type A H1N1 and Type A H3N2—responsible for most illnesses
FLU CDC ILI Seasonal Flu Season Outbreak Health School Closures Doctor Visits VIRUS
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Severe weather and major power outages increasingly coincide across the United States, study findsAn understanding of the relationship between severe weather and power outages in our changing climate will be critical for hazard response plans, according to a new study.
Read more »
Severe Winter Storm to Bring Heavy Snow and Hazardous Conditions to Multiple StatesA winter storm warning is in effect for four states: Oregon, Washington, California, and Minnesota. The storm is expected to bring up to 34 inches of snow to some areas, potentially causing hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and health risks.
Read more »
Red States vs. Blue States: Political Divisions Play Out at the State LevelThe article explores how political divisions between red and blue states are increasingly influencing public policy at the state level, particularly regarding immigration, abortion, education, and transgender rights.
Read more »
Red States vs. Blue States: Political Divide Plays Out in State PolicyThe political divide in the US is reflected in state policy as red states align with Trump's policies, while blue states resist. Immigration, abortion, school choice and DEI initiatives are key areas where this clash is playing out.
Read more »
Red States vs. Blue States: How Trump's Policies Will Play Out at the State LevelThis article explores the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump's policies on state governments across the United States, highlighting the differences in approach between Republican-led 'red states' and Democratic-led 'blue states'.
Read more »
Alabama Sees 'Very High' Flu Activity, but Emergency Room Visits DeclineAlabama is among ten states with some of the highest influenza-like illness (ILI) activity, according to the CDC. While the state remains at a 'very high' level for ILI, emergency room visits for flu, COVID, and RSV have decreased since the beginning of January. The CDC predicts flu numbers will remain high for the next two weeks. Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) recommends vaccination for flu, COVID, and RSV, along with social distancing if experiencing symptoms.
Read more »