From Newsweek · · 1m 10s
Should You Get a Flu Shot Now?
CDC reports early flu surge with H1N1 dominance; vaccines recommended before winter peak.
In brief
CDC reports early flu surge with H1N1 dominance; vaccines recommended before winter peak. CDC warns of early flu season with H1N1 virus causing hospitalizations; annual flu shots recommended to prevent severe illness. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Early Flu Surge
CDC reports 4,811 laboratory-confirmed flu hospital admissions nationwide during the week ending October 17.
H1N1 Dominance
CDC lab surveillance showed 239 of 241 influenza a samples analyzed were h1n1, indicating overwhelming dominance.
Early Season Start
Walgreens data suggests flu activity is tracking four weeks ahead of recent seasons based on testing and sales.
Health Expert Advice
Dr. Amesh A. Adalja says flu vaccine prevents severe disease including hospitalization; get vaccinated ASAP.
State-Level Activity
Louisiana and Hawaii reported moderate flu-like illness; Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Oregon and Washington at low levels.
Vaccination Recommendation
CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older; September and October preferred months.
What Happens Next
Health officials will monitor hospitalization trends and h1n1 dominance to determine if season is unusually early.
The headline
CDC warns of early flu season with H1N1 virus causing hospitalizations; annual flu shots recommended to prevent severe illness.
