Recent weeks have seen a leveling off in COVID-19 cases, but flu season in California is off to an early and rapid start. The first influenza-related deaths of the season have already been reported by the state, adding to a nationwide surge in flu activity.
According to the latest report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu activity is on the rise across most of the country, particularly on the West Coast. Already this season, there have been over 490,000 flu-related illnesses, 5,300 hospitalizations, and 330 deaths. This level of hospitalizations is the second-highest on record for this time of year.
In California, although flu activity is currently low, there has been a noticeable increase. Expert Dr. Peter Chin-Hong from UCSF reported that, “It hasn’t been too crazy yet, but it’s getting there.”
The traditional peak for California’s flu season is February, but last year an earlier start and finish were observed. This year is shaping up similarly, with a rise in positive flu test results and doctor’s office visits across the state. Public health data indicates a steady increase, with the overall percentage of influenza-like illness visits now reaching 3.8%.
Health officials stress the importance of getting vaccinated, even now, before the holidays, as it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to become effective. Dr. Tomás Aragón of the California Department of Public Health urged caution, especially as people gather indoors for festivities.
Amid concerns about a potential tripledemic, featuring flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus surging simultaneously, experts emphasize the importance of caution, particularly for high-risk individuals. Vaccinations for both influenza and COVID-19 are recommended for all individuals age 6 months and older. Furthermore, this year’s flu vaccine is believed to be a relatively good match against circulating strains.
In California, the flu causes tens of thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations annually. The state has also seen a rapid increase in the percentage of positive respiratory syncytial virus tests, including hospital admissions surpassing those for COVID-19 and the flu.
Consulting with health authorities is recommended if an individual becomes ill with the flu, RSV or COVID-19, or more than one. Masks are advised, particularly during high-risk exposures, and taking appropriate medications to alleviate symptoms is also recommended.
With the sharp rise in circulating viruses, there is a heightened risk of contracting multiple illnesses simultaneously, which can attack the respiratory system and cause various symptoms. This may significantly strain hospital capacity if all three viruses peak at the same time.
