Around the world, a billion cases of seasonal flu are reported every year. While developing countries are most affected by influenza, the United States has also experienced its share of cases and hospitalizations. The U.S. saw as many as 58,000 flu-related deaths in flu season 2023. Here is all you need to know about seasonal influenza.

Flu Symptoms

Seemingly, a common infectious disease, influenza or flu, can have multiple symptoms, which may even lead to death. The symptoms of flu become apparent around 2 days after coming into contact with the virus. The virus is typically transmitted from person to person, commonly through coughing or sneezing. People experiencing flu may have some or all of the symptoms mentioned below:

• Sudden fever
• Dry cough
• Muscle and joint pain
• Sore throat
• Runny or clogged nose
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Vomiting and Diarrhea, commonly in children.

You may be wondering if the symptoms mentioned above are similar to those of a normal cold. Well, the primary difference between cold vs flu symptoms is that cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. Don’t confuse your flu with a common cold this flu season in 2023. Get the help you need immediately.

How to Prevent Flu Transmission

Although it is a common illness that leaves a common man without medication, severe flu cases are also reported every year, with deaths common in infants. Here is a guide on preventing flu transmission:

1. The most common and safest way to prevent flu is vaccination. Flu vaccinations (more commonly referred to as flu shots) have been used worldwide for over 60 years.
2. Thoroughly washing and drying hands.
3. Protecting others by covering your mouth.
4. Staying away from those who show symptoms.
5. Remaining at home when sick.
6. Disposing of used tissues properly.
7. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to stop the spread of germs.

Flu Vaccination Recommendations

Safe flu vaccines have been widely used across the world for many years. Although an average person gets flu vaccination when necessary, doctors recommend annual vaccinations for children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years and pregnant women. It is also recommended for people over the age of 65, health workers or medical professionals, and people with chronic medical conditions.
According to CDC guidelines, the top flu vaccination recommendations include the following:

• Afluria Quadrivalent for children between the ages of 6 months and 35 months.
• Flublok Quadrivalent for children less than 18 years old.
• Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent for all people below the age of 65 years.

Influenza Trends in the US

Flu season 2023 activity has been on a low nationwide, with only a few parts of the country experiencing increased activity. There has been no pediatric death associated with influenza in this flu season so far. So far, all the 10 HHS regions are below their respective baselines in respiratory illness. For more detailed flu season statistics, you can visit the Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report.

Conclusion

While the flu, in some cases, can be lethal, it can be controlled with simple safety precautions and symptom management. If you have aging seniors at home who are suffering from flu and need extra care, feel free to contact us today!