According to this week’s CDC FluView report for Week 46 ending Nov. 16, 2019, seasonal influenza activity in the United States continues to increase but the amount of activity and the predominant influenza virus varies by region.

7.3% of respiratory specimens tested by clinical laboratories were positive for influenza viruses. This is higher than the previous week.

Nationally, B/Victoria viruses are most common followed by A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) viruses. The predominant virus varies by region and age group.

2.5% of visits to healthcare providers were for influenza-like illness (ILI). ILI was above the national baseline of 2.4% for the first time. Four of 10 regions were at or above their baselines.

The number of jurisdictions experiencing high ILI activity increased from 1 last week to 8 this week; however 44 jurisdictions experienced minimal or low ILI activity.

The number of jurisdictions reporting regional or widespread activity increased from 10 last week to 15 this week.

The overall hospitalization rate for the season is 1.4 per 100,000. This is similar to what has been seen at this time during other recent seasons.

5.2% of deaths were attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I). This is below the epidemic threshold of 6.2%.

One new influenza-associated pediatric death occurring during the 2019-2020 season was reported to CDC this week. The total for the season is 4.

Nationally, ILI activity has been at or above baseline for two weeks; however, the amount of influenza activity across the country varies with the south and parts of the west seeing elevated activity while other parts of the country are still seeing low activity.

There is significant cocirculation of influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria viruses with the predominant virus varying by region and age group.

The flu season is just getting started. It’s not too late to get vaccinated. Flu vaccination is always the best way to prevent flu and its potentially serious complications.

Source: CDC