The flu season this year has taken a deadly turn, with 26 fatalities reported in just one week. Among the deceased were 9 children, which has raised concerns among health officials.

What caused the sudden rise in flu deaths?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Every year, the flu season starts in the fall and ends in the spring. This year, the flu virus seems to be more severe than usual, leading to a sudden rise in fatalities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu season started earlier than usual this year, and the predominant strain of flu virus is Influenza A (H3N2).

This strain is known to cause more severe illness, especially among young children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions.

The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most common strains of the flu virus, including Influenza A (H3N2). However, the flu vaccine is not 100% effective, and some people may still get infected even after being vaccinated.

How many people have been affected by the flu?

According to the CDC, more than 26 million people in the US have been affected by the flu this season, and more than 430,000 have been hospitalized. The number of hospitalizations is also higher than usual, with many people requiring intensive care.

As of the latest report, 77 people have been admitted to ICUs due to complications from the flu. This number is also higher than usual and has put a strain on healthcare resources.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and include:.

Fever or chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Fatigue

If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if you are at high risk of complications from the flu.

High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions.

How can you protect yourself from the flu?

The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. It is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, especially those at high risk of complications from the flu.

In addition to vaccination, you can also take the following measures to protect yourself from the flu:.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
Avoid close contact with sick people
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Stay home if you are sick

By taking these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of getting the flu and spreading it to others.

Conclusion

The flu season this year has been more severe than usual, with a sudden rise in fatalities and hospitalizations. The predominant strain of the flu virus, Influenza A (H3N2), is known to cause more severe illness, especially among high-risk groups.

To protect yourself from the flu, it is important to get vaccinated and take simple preventive measures. If you experience flu symptoms, seek medical attention, especially if you are at high risk of complications from the flu.