The Centers for Disease Control reported today that influenza activity is rising across the United States. New cases increased about 8% over last week, and at least one child death has been reported this season.
Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook says the post‑Thanksgiving travel surge appears to be fueling infections. Hot spots include Louisiana, Colorado, New Jersey and New York, where hospitals and clinics are seeing more patients with flu symptoms. “We’re seeing a huge uptick in the number of cases of influenza,” he noted.
Dr. Ayala Wegman, a pediatrician at NYU Langone Health, addressed common parental concerns about the flu vaccine. Many parents decline vaccination because they believe the flu won’t be severe for their child or because they fear side effects from the shot. Dr. Wegman stressed that the vaccine is safe and reduces the chance of severe illness and death.
So far this season roughly 40% of Americans have been vaccinated against influenza. By contrast, last season there were 280 pediatric flu deaths, and about 90% of those children had not been vaccinated.
Responding to claims of a vaccine “mismatch” with circulating strains, Dr. Wegman said that while some mismatch can occur, it does not negate the vaccine’s ability to reduce hospitalizations and prevent death. “Don’t be afraid of getting the flu vaccine,” she said.
For people who haven’t been vaccinated yet, it’s not too late. Flu season can continue into May and beyond, and protection begins within a few days of vaccination, with stronger protection around two weeks after the shot.
Antiviral medications are also available. If you develop flu, antivirals can lessen the severity of illness. If you were exposed but are not yet sick, some antivirals can reduce the chance of becoming ill if started within 48 hours of exposure; the sooner they are begun, the better. Dr. Wegman encouraged patients to discuss options with their clinicians.
Her final practical advice: if you are sick, stay home. There are no points for showing up to work or school while contagious. “No medals for valor here,” she said.
Dr. LaPook concluded the report by reminding viewers that vaccination, timely treatment, and sensible precautions remain the best ways to protect individuals and communities as flu activity climbs.