Flu-related deaths nearly triple of last season
“This doesn’t mean that we are having a pandemic, just that levels of influenza-like illness are as high as what we saw during the peak of H1N1.”
In Iowa, flu-related deaths have jumped to a total of 157 as of Feb. 17, more than three times the number for this time last year.
In its weekly flu summary, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported that there were at least 135 influenza-related hospitalizations in the state during the second week of February.
Tests by the State Hygienic Laboratory indicate that influenza A H3N2 was the most frequently identified influenza virus for this week in Iowa, as it was nationwide.
The CDC reports that influenza A H3N2 often is linked to more severe illness, especially in children.
“The more severe symptoms include a persistent high fever, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat, and significant tiredness or confusion,” Schuchat said. “Another severe symptom is this: You start to get better, and then suddenly you feel much worse. That could indicate a secondary bacterial pneumonia, and you should seek medical attention immediately if that’s happening.”
The State Hygienic Laboratory is part of IDPH’s Iowa Influenza Surveillance, which tracks influenza-like illness and other respiratory viruses in the state. These reports are available on the IDPH website, and are part of the CDC’s national flu activity report.
