The United States is experiencing its worst flu season in 15 years, with “very high” influenza activity reported across Pennsylvania, write Tina Reed and Isaac Avilucea for AXIOS.
The virus, which is resulting in more severe complications, has been particularly hard on young children.
This year has seen the highest number of flu infections since the 2009-2010 season, with over 29 million reported nationwide.
This has hospitalized hundreds of thousands of Americans, placing significant strain on physicians’ offices and emergency departments.
For the first time since the pandemic began, flu hospitalizations have surpassed those from COVID-19.
In Pennsylvania, flu cases have more than doubled in the most recent week compared to the same period last year. As of February 15, the state has recorded over 153,000 cases, including 348 deaths. Since January 25, the percentage of flu-related deaths has surpassed that of COVID-19, while the weekly rate of flu-related ER visits has exceeded those from coronavirus and RSV combined.
In Philadelphia, flu infarction rates are higher than highs in November-December 2022, at around 1,031 cases per 100,000 people.
Collar counties are recording similar numbers, with 1,052 in Bucks County and 956 in Montgomery County.
So far this season, Philadelphia has reported over 16,000 cases.
Read more about the flu season in AXIOS.
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