Greater Gardner seeing resurgence in flu activity: What health experts are saying
The region is experiencing an active flu season, and local health officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid influenza and influenza-like illnesses.
The U.S. is currently experiencing a second surge in flu cases, following a spike in early January.
Over 10% of healthcare visits are currently due to the flu and similar illnesses, compared to just 6.5% last season, marking the highest rate in the past four years, and the estimated severity of influenza in Massachusetts for the week ending Feb. 1 was listed as "very high," according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Vinod Mohan, who specializes in infectious disease prevention at Heywood Healthcare, said contributing factors may include both lower vaccination rates and the fact that there are multiple influenza strains circulating at the same time.
“While the data does not determine the cause, hospitals, including Heywood and Athol, have experienced noticeable increases in flu-related and respiratory illness admissions with very high emergency room volumes in recent weeks,” Mohan said.
Nearly 100 flu-related deaths in Massachusetts this season
Sadly, Massachusetts has reported 98 flu-related deaths so far this season, including five children, according to Mohan, who added that the number of victims underscores the importance of taking preventative measures.
“If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, it’s not too late,” he said. “Vaccination is one of the best ways to reduce the severity of symptoms, prevent hospitalizations, and minimize complications."
Only 38% of Massachusetts residents currently vaccinated
Mohan said that only 38% of Massachusetts is currently vaccinated, and the rate is even lower in the Gardner/Athol area – under 30%.
“Increasing vaccination rates could help curb the spread and lessen the burden on local healthcare systems,” Mohan added. “As flu activity remains high, we encourage everyone to take precautions: get vaccinated, practice good hand hygiene, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell. Protecting yourself also helps protect those around you, especially those most vulnerable to severe illness.”