The flu is surging around Massachusetts, with activity for the virus reaching a “very high” level across the state. This flu season is proving to be one of the most severe in recent years, with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health reporting the highest levels of flu cases since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also noted a significant increase in flu activity, with outpatient respiratory illness remaining above baseline levels for the tenth consecutive week.
According to the CDC, the nation has seen over 24 million cases of the flu this season, leading to 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths. In Massachusetts alone, more than 10 percent of patients visiting doctors’ offices are experiencing flu-like symptoms, a significant increase compared to previous flu seasons. Hospitalizations have also risen, with 98 reported flu-related deaths in the state.
Dr. Michele Schroeder, president of the Massachusetts College of Emergency Physicians, remarked on the severity of this flu season, noting that patients seem to be experiencing more prolonged and severe symptoms compared to recent years. The demographic most affected by the flu this year is the usually healthy 20- to 40-year-old age group.
Understanding the Surge in Flu Cases
Dr. Zandra Kelley, chief medical officer at the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, expressed concern over the spike in flu cases, emphasizing that the flu is making a strong comeback this year. She highlighted an increase in patients with flu-like symptoms, with many individuals, including those at high risk, opting out of getting the flu vaccine.
Dr. Sundeep Shukla from Colley Dickinson Hospital linked the rise in flu cases to a decrease in flu vaccinations, as well as reduced masking and social distancing measures. According to state data, only 38 percent of Massachusetts residents have received the flu vaccine this season, a lower rate than in previous years. Additionally, Dr. Sandeep Jubbal, an infectious disease specialist at UMass Memorial, attributed the spread of the flu to fluctuating winter temperatures, prompting more people to stay indoors and increasing the likelihood of transmission.
Protecting Yourself During Flu Season
As the flu season can last until May, health experts are urging individuals to get vaccinated against the flu to prevent serious illness. The Boston Public Health Commission is offering free vaccination clinics to make the vaccine more accessible to the community. Dr. Paul Sax, clinical director of infectious diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention if experiencing flu-like symptoms, as early treatment with antiviral medications can help alleviate the severity of the illness.
Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. It is essential to practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly, staying home when sick, avoiding close contact with others who are ill, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. By taking these precautions and getting vaccinated, individuals can reduce the spread of the flu and protect themselves and their communities from the virus.
