The most aggressive flu season in the last 15 years: What's happening?

This flu season has been tough, with cases at their highest levels in at least 15 years. That makes it possible that you — or someone you know — has been infected or exposed to the virus. There are two main types of flu, influenza A and influenza B, with several subtypes within them. According to experts, the current surge in cases is being driven largely by influenza A.

For many people, flu symptoms include fever, body aches, and fatigue that make it impossible to perform daily tasks. However, for some others, the flu can cause serious complications. Why are doctors worried about this wave of influenza A?

Flu cases are at their highest level in a decade. Experts say we are currently experiencing a second wave of the flu, something not uncommon at the end of winter.

However, the high number of affected people is not normal and is raising concerns among doctors.

Vaccination among children is lower than usual

Statistics show that the rate of vaccination of children against influenza has decreased compared to previous years.

 This may affect the spread of the virus, as children are more prone to close physical contact, especially in kindergartens and schools.

 Doctors emphasize that, although the flu is usually milder in children than in adults or people with health problems, they can be a source of spread within families.

The decline in vaccination is also linked to the general hesitancy towards vaccines that has increased in recent years. According to the latest data, the number of deaths from influenza was higher than that from COVID-19 during the last week of January. This is the first time that influenza has caused more deaths than COVID since the beginning of the pandemic.

However, experts emphasize that there is no evidence that this flu season is more severe than previous seasons, but the high number of cases and the increase in hospitalizations make the situation worrying.

 

Sources: Huff Post