Boston is experiencing an early flu surge this year. Health officials report a shocking 114% increase in flu cases just before Christmas. Emergency room visits related to the flu have also shot up by 44%, with the highest infection rates among children, according to a press release from the Boston Public Health Commission.
This spike is about a month earlier compared to last year’s flu season, when case numbers didn’t reach these levels until January. Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Boston’s public health commissioner, emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself and loved ones from respiratory illnesses that can lead to hospitalization.
The city encourages residents, especially children and high-risk adults, to get their annual flu vaccine. Dr. Ojikutu points out that flu spreads swiftly during colder months when people gather indoors. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated,” she said. Vaccination remains a key way to prevent severe illness.
While over 2,500 people have been vaccinated at 27 free clinics so far, only about 30% of Boston residents had received their flu shot as of early December. To address this, additional vaccination clinics will be available in January. Aside from vaccination, the Public Health Commission recommends regular hand washing, wearing masks, and staying home when sick to help slow the spread.
Interestingly, this rise in flu activity aligns with reports of a new strain known as a “super flu.” This variant is contributing to early increases in flu cases in multiple countries, including the UK. In Massachusetts, the level of influenza-like illness is currently rated as “high” or “very high,” as per data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
According to a recent survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seasonal flu activity is rising across the country, particularly affecting children. This is a trend to watch as families gather for the holidays.
In summary, with flu cases on the rise, vaccination and preventive measures are crucial as Boston navigates this year’s unusual surge. For more detailed findings and statistics, you can check the CDC website.
