For the past several months, the world has been grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. But while this virus has dominated headlines, another virus has been quietly circulating: influenza.

Every year, influenza infects millions of people worldwide and can result in serious illness or even death for certain populations. However, there are signs that influenza may finally be slowing down.

What Is Influenza?

Influenza is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms ranging from a mild cold to a severe illness. It spreads easily from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes.

People at higher risk for serious complications from influenza include young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.

The 2019-2020 Influenza Season

This past influenza season started early in the United States and was initially severe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu activity was high for over three months nationwide.

During that time, millions of people became ill, hundreds of thousands required hospitalization, and tens of thousands died.

However, over the past several weeks, there has been a significant decline in influenza activity. As of April 2020, the CDC reports that influenza activity is low in most of the United States.

Why Has Activity Decreased?

There are several possible reasons for the decrease in influenza activity. One of the primary factors is the implementation of social distancing measures.

As people started staying home and avoiding close contact with others, the spread of both COVID-19 and influenza decreased.

Another factor is that many healthcare systems have been overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients, so testing and reporting for influenza has been reduced.

Additionally, more people have received the influenza vaccine this year, which may have reduced the spread of the virus.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

While it is difficult to predict the future of influenza, there are some potential implications of the current trend. One possibility is that there will be a significant decrease in influenza-related deaths this year.

This would be welcome news for all populations, but particularly for those at higher risk for severe complications.

Another possibility is that influenza will return with a vengeance in the fall and winter months. Influenza activity typically peaks between December and February, so it is possible that the recent decline in activity is only temporary.

If this is the case, it will be important for people to continue taking precautions and getting vaccinated.

How to Protect Yourself and Others

While there is no guaranteed way to avoid influenza, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect others. These include:.

Getting vaccinated
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Avoiding close contact with sick people
Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
Staying home if you are sick

Conclusion

The recent decline in influenza activity is a positive sign, but it is important not to get complacent. Influenza can still cause serious illness and death, so it is essential to continue taking precautions and getting vaccinated.

By doing so, we can help protect ourselves and others from this dangerous virus.