The exponential surge in flu cases this year is driving an increase in hospitalization and deaths, overburdening the US healthcare system. Touted as one of the worst flu seasons in recent decades, the current outbreak has sickened around 24 million Americans, caused 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths, including at least 57 children as per CDC data. Around 43 states and the District of Columbia are reporting high or very high levels of influenza-like illness activity, as per CDC. Flu cases are surging in Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, South Carolina, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and New York City, as per a CDC map.
In contrast, Covid-19 and RSV cases are comparatively mild this year, and are overpowered by a strong wave of flu which has also forced schools to temporarily close in some states.
This year, a second wave of flu caught everyone by surprise. The early wave began around late December and early January. While the virus seemed to subside for a couple of weeks after that, giving an impression that the season is on its way out, it has now started to peak again, and that too at an unusually high rate.
Flu is capable of causing severe symptoms with life-threatening complications. It is important to know when your flu symptoms are turning dangerous and may require hospitalization.
Mild symptoms of flu include:
Fever that is often accompanied with chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle and/or body aches
Headache
Feeling tired and weak
Some children may experience vomiting and diarrhea
Severe symptoms of flu that require hospitalisation:
Signs of severe illness in children:Fast breathing or difficulty breathing: If your child is breathless or breathing very fast, it's a sign that their infection is deteriorating.
Bluish skin color: This is also known as cyanosis, and can occur as the virus can severely impact lung function, leading to decreased oxygen levels in the blood.
Not drinking enough fluids: Lack of proper hydration during flu can turn serious if left untreated. Dehydration can make it harder for your body to fight the flu and recover.
Other symptoms include not waking up or not interacting, being so irritable that the child doesn’t want to be held, flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and a worse cough, fever with a rash.
In the case of infants, if they are not able to eat, have trouble breathing, don't have tears when crying, and have significantly fewer wet diapers than normal, it's a sign to seek emergency care.
Severe signs of flu in adults
Having difficulty breathing or shortness of breath: This could indicate a severe respiratory infection or complications such as pneumonia, requiring immediate medical attention.
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen: Persistent or severe discomfort in these areas may signal heart or lung complications, including pneumonia or a secondary infection.
Sudden dizziness: A sudden feeling of lightheadedness or loss of balance might be a sign of dehydration, low oxygen levels, or a more serious underlying issue.
Confusion: Mental disorientation or difficulty concentrating could indicate oxygen deprivation, high fever, or severe infection, especially in older adults.
Severe and/or persistent vomiting: Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may require medical intervention.
Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and a worse cough: This could be a sign of a secondary bacterial infection, such as pneumonia, which can develop after the initial flu symptoms subside.
Young children, people 65 or older, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of getting severe complications of flu. It is important for them to exercise all precautions to avoid infection.
How to prevent flu
According to CDC, the following measures can be taken:
To prevent flu, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. An alcohol-based hand rub can also help but doesn't kill 100% germs like hand wash.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent spread of germs.
You can improve air quality by bringing in fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors. Cleaner air can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses.
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