Florida Reports High Flu Activity as CDC Estimates 9,300 Deaths Nationwide This Season

Florida sits at the top of the "high" tier for flu activity. The nation wrestles with a season that has delivered at least 18 million illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations, and 9,300 deaths. The Center for Disease Control released those numbers in its Jan. 16 FluView report, according to the Cape Coral Breeze.

Lee Health reported 432 positive specimens from Jan. 11 to Jan. 17 in ambulatory care. Tests showed 348 cases of influenza A and 84 cases of influenza B. Acute care facilities recorded 237 positive tests during the same week, including 217 influenza A and 20 influenza B cases.

This season has claimed 32 children. The CDC labeled the pediatric age group as having high severity, while both the adult and older adult age groups face moderate severity.

Lee Health officials warn that a newer version of the virus has appeared since last summer. This strain causes more serious illness than typical seasonal flu.

Most of the southeast United States falls in the "very high" bracket for reported cases as of Jan. 18. The state's most recent report covers Dec. 29 to Jan. 4. It shows increases in both confirmed cases and ER visits for flu-like symptoms.

The general peak for the viral illness continues through February. Numbers are down a bit from December and this time last year, but health officials say the threat remains real.

Those 65 and older face the highest risk. People with existing medical conditions do too. Children 5 and younger, pregnant women, and those who have given birth recently are also vulnerable. 

The Florida Flu Review shows a leveling off of cases statewide. For many people, the viral illness remains mild.

This year's vaccine protects against three strains. The Florida Department of Health in Lee County offers the vaccine by appointment at (239) 461-6100. Private providers, doctor's offices and pharmacies also have shots available.