The CDC has reported that 23 states — including nearly all of the South and parts of the Northeast — are seeing flu activity that is much higher than average.
Five children and teens died from the flu in the last week recorded, bringing the total number for the 2016–17 flu season up to 20. The proportion of pediatric deaths due to pneumonia and influenza (7.9%) reached an epidemic threshold in late January.
The predominant circulating strain is influenza A (H3), which is covered under the current flu vaccine. Virus samples tested are susceptible to antivirals like Tamiflu.
The good news is that the flu vaccine is almost 50% effective against circulation strains. Because the vaccine takes several months to produce in adequate amounts, the CDC decides in spring (May 2016) which strains should be included in this year's vaccine. This is typically based on what is circulating in the far East. In some years they have been wrong, with the vaccine being only effective against as low as 20% of strains. Ideally 75% is the goal; but even 50% is great and saves lives.
Given that influenza activity remained high as of February 10, the CDC recommends vaccinating unvaccinated individuals aged 6 months and older "as soon as possible." As I have previously mentioned I agree with this.
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