According to this week’s CDC FluView report for Week 47, ending Nov. 23, 2019, seasonal influenza activity in the United States continues to increase but the amount of activity and the predominant influenza virus varies by region.

8.0% 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.

Genetic and antigenic characterization and antiviral susceptibility of viruses collected in the U.S. this season is now being reported.

2.9% of visits to healthcare providers were for influenza-like illness (ILI). ILI has been at or above the national baseline of 2.4% for three weeks. Four of 10 regions were at or above their baselines.

The number of jurisdictions experiencing high ILI activity remained at 8 this week. In addition, 7 jurisdictions had moderate activity compared to 0 last week.

The number of jurisdictions reporting regional or widespread activity increased from 15 last week to 24 this week.

The overall hospitalization rate for the season is 2.0 per 100,000. This is similar to what has been seen at this time during other recent seasons.

5.1% of deaths were attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I). This is below the epidemic threshold of 6.3%.

One new influenza-associated pediatric death occurring during the 2019-2020 season was reported to CDC this week. The total for the season is 5.

Source: CDC