CDC: Flu Hospitalization Rate Continues to Climb

Mar 02, 2018 - 11:48 AM
flu-hospitalization

The flu hospitalization rate rose last week to 81.7 per 100,000 people. It recently surpassed the rate at the end of the 2014-2015 flu season, another severe season when the H3N2 strain also predominated. H3N2 viruses are associated with more hospitalizations and deaths in older adults and young children. A total of 114 flu-associated pediatric deaths have been reported nationally this season, and 23,324 flu hospitalizations in the 13 states reporting data to CDC’s surveillance network. Forty-five states continue to report widespread flu activity. CDC recommends treating all hospitalized, severely ill and high-risk patients who have suspected or confirmed influenza with antiviral medications as soon as possible. The agency also recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older.

Related News Articles

Headline
CMS issues final rule for Medicare Advantage, Part D plans
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services today issued a rule finalizing certain telehealth and network adequacy proposals for Medicare Advantage and…
Headline
FDA approves two drugs to help address shortages
The Food and Drug Administration this week approved two abbreviated new drug applications expected to alleviate shortages and help during the COVID-19…
Headline
FDA updates certain COVID-19 drug compounding guidance
The Food and Drug Administration yesterday updated two guidances for the temporary compounding of certain drugs used to treat COVID-19 patients. The guidance…
Headline
FDA removes tests from list of antibody tests under review
The Food and Drug Administration yesterday posted a list of COVID-19 antibody tests that will no longer be marketed because they have not been authorized for…
Headline
HHS announces nearly $4.9 billion distribution to SNFs affected by COVID-19
The Department of Health and Human Services today announced that it has begun distributing nearly $4.9 billion from the Public Health and Social Services…
Perspective
Perspective: COVID-19 Puts a Spotlight on the Need for Health Equity
In Michigan, African Americans make up 14% of the population … but account for 40% of the COVID-19 deaths. In Chicago: 30% of the population … and 46% of the…