CDC: 'Very High' Flu Surge in New Mexico

Influenza season is in full effect throughout the United States, with specialists still observing anincrease in cases weekly. Recent statist...

Influenza season is in full effect throughout the United States, with specialists still observing anincrease in cases weekly.

Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that during this flu season, approximately 7.5 million people have experienced flu-related illnesses, 81,000 have been hospitalized, and 3,100 have lost their lives. Among the deceased, eight were children, with five of them passing away within the past week.

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Approximately 20 states are currently experiencing "very high" levels of flu activity, such as New Mexico, Colorado, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, and South Carolina.

Nine additional states are experiencing "high activity," such as Texas, Alabama, California, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Nevada, and Virginia.

Medical professionals suggest that the increase in cases in New Mexico might be associated with immunization levels.

Undoubtedly, the current vaccination levels play a significant role. Specifically, we're observing this among younger individuals," stated Dr. Denise A. Gonzales from Presbyterian Healthcare Services. "The number of emergency department visits is significantly higher among those under 18 compared to those over 18, and much of this can be associated with vaccination rates.

This week, the CDC is noting a nearly 26% rise in confirmed flu cases. Specialists anticipate a further rise in the number of infections in the near future because of lower temperatures and holiday events.

As reported by ABC News, a significant number of flu cases this season are associated with a new flu strain known as subclade K, which is a variation of the H3N2 virus, a type of influenza A. Cases of this strain have been increasing since the summer in nations like Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Out of the 1,600 flu samples analyzed by the CDC, approximately 92% were identified as H3N2, with nearly 90% of those testing positive for subclade K.

The majority of the flu cases we are encountering this season are caused by influenza type A," stated Gonzales. "The flu vaccines developed this year are trivalent, meaning they target the majority of the strains that are currently circulating. However, this K variant appeared after the vaccines were created. As a result, the existing vaccines are not very effective.

But she says to KOAT, the most effective way to combat the flu is by receiving a flu vaccine.

Vaccines are between 60% and 80% effective in reducing the likelihood of hospitalization," stated Gonzales. "I understand that some people say, 'I had the flu last year and received the flu vaccine. It didn't work.' But it actually did work because it kept you from needing to be hospitalized. So you might still experience a mild illness that you can manage at home with symptom relief.

Suggestions to lower the chance of getting the flu:

• Avoid close contact:Avoid individuals who are unwell. If you are feeling ill, maintain a safe distance from others to prevent them from getting sick.
• Stay in your home if you are unwell:If possible, avoid going to work, school, or running errands while you are unwell. You may return to regular activities once you are feeling significantly better and have been fever-free for a minimum of 24 hours.
• Shield your mouth and face:Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. The flu can be transmitted via droplets released when individuals cough, sneeze, or speak. Using a facial mask offers additional protection for both you and those around you.
• Clean your hands:Clean your hands regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.: Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth as germs may transfer when an individual comes into contact with a surface contaminated with germs and subsequently touches these areas.
• Maintain proper cleanliness and positive routines:Regularly clean surfaces that are often touched, such as tables, railings, and door handles. Additionally, make sure to get sufficient rest, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress effectively, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy diet.
• Ensure that the air is clean:Better air quality lowers the chance of coming into contact with viruses. Enhance indoor air by introducing outside air or employing an air filter.

If you believe you have the flu, professionals recommend contacting your primary care physician immediately.

I believe that from the very beginning, when you start experiencing some symptoms, don't wait to see how they develop the next day. Contact your primary care physician. Avoid going to the clinic. Don't visit urgent care. Don't head to the emergency room. Instead, call your PCP," explained Gonzales. "They can manage those symptoms and begin treatment with a medication known as Tamiflu, which, if started early, can reduce your symptoms by at least two days, which is beneficial in avoiding two additional days of body aches, nausea, and vomiting.

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