If you’re feeling a bit unwell, it could be the flu virus rather than COVID-19 that’s affecting you. Although flu cases are lower than in pre-pandemic years, this season has seen a peak occurring later than we’ve experienced in decades. In April, 10% of flu tests came back positive, and as of the week ending April 30, that figure was still at 8.1%. According to Dr. Sarah Thompson, who leads the CDC’s influenza tracking team, we haven’t seen a flu peak this late since 1982. “We usually don’t think of flu in May, but it’s definitely still circulating,” she stated in an interview.
The recent end of masking guidelines may have played a role in this unexpected trend. During the 2020-2021 flu season, infections were at an all-time low due to the widespread social distancing and masking measures in place. Infection rates differ by region, with the latest CDC data indicating the highest occurrences in New Mexico, Colorado, and Puerto Rico. The CDC estimates that this flu season has resulted in approximately 5.7 million illnesses, 59,000 hospitalizations, and 3,600 deaths, including 24 pediatric fatalities. For context, only one pediatric death was reported during the 2020-2021 season when strict pandemic precautions were enforced, while the 2019-2020 season saw 199 pediatric deaths and the 2018-2019 season had 144.
Children are particularly vulnerable to complications from the flu, so the CDC advises that everyone aged 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine as long as flu activity persists — meaning there’s still an opportunity. Although the H3N2 strain causing most infections this season is not the perfect match for the vaccines, they can still help prevent hospitalizations and fatalities, even if they don’t fully stop infections. If you or your child experience symptoms like fever, body aches, or a cough, which could indicate the flu, COVID-19, or another virus, it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider promptly. Antiviral treatments for both COVID-19 and flu work best when administered early in the course of the illness.
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In summary, the flu season has peaked later than usual this year, and flu cases are still present. With children being particularly susceptible to complications, vaccination is encouraged as flu activity continues. If you or your child show symptoms, consulting a medical professional is crucial for effective treatment.