The CDC monitors a surge in respiratory illnesses, revealing concerning stats amid the winter season. Flu, RSV, and COVID-19 symptoms surge nationwide.
According to the CDC’s tracking, there has been a substantial increase in individuals seeking medical attention for respiratory symptoms.
Influenza Cases Spike
Alarming data indicates a 13% surge in positive influenza cases in just a week, underscoring the severity of the situation.
For the current flu season, the CDC estimates that a staggering 5.3 million people have fallen ill, with 54,000 hospitalizations and 3,200 deaths.
Shockingly, these numbers continue to rise, emphasizing the relentless impact of respiratory illnesses on the population.
As of December 16, nine states have escalated to the “very high” flu activity category, the CDC’s highest level of concern.
This is a significant jump from just one month ago, when only two states fell into this category. Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, along with New York City, now find themselves in the throes of “very high” flu activity.
A further 14 states, along with Washington, D.C., are not far behind, still categorized as experiencing “high” levels of illness activity.
The CDC’s data visualization tools provide a stark visual representation of the escalating situation, with the darker shades of red indicating higher levels of respiratory illness.
It is crucial to note that the CDC determines each state’s flu activity by comparing current data from healthcare providers to the normal baseline for that area outside of flu season.
The evaluation is based on individuals reporting to healthcare facilities with flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, or sore throat.
However, it is important to recognize that these figures are not solely based on lab-confirmed influenza cases, potentially encompassing other respiratory illnesses such as COVID or RSV.
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CDC Maps: State Respiratory Illness Progression in the Last Month
The maps provided by the CDC allow individuals to witness the progression of respiratory illness levels in their respective states over the past month.
As the nation grapples with this surge in respiratory illnesses, it is imperative for individuals to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical attention when needed.
The collaborative efforts of communities, healthcare professionals, and public health initiatives will play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these widespread respiratory illnesses.
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