Flu Cases Surge as Americans Prepare for Holiday Gatherings

Flu season is in its full swing and the cases are surging in the United States. A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday also confirmed the hike in the number of cases. Of the 50, 13 states including Tennessee and Louisiana, reported high or very high levels of flu-like illness. This number has been doubled from the previous week. This trend was also confirmed by Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University to AP News.

As per CDC, flu-related emergency room visits and lab test confirmations are rising steadily, marking the start of a challenging winter for respiratory viruses. “Flu has been increasing, but just this last week has exploded,” Dr. Schaffner added.

Flu - A Concern

As of December 7, the CDC data shows that only 41% of children had been vaccinated. In fact, the rates have dropped from previous years, where 44% children were vaccinated. In fact, COVID-19 vaccination rates are even lower at 21% for adults and 11% for children.

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In fact, a recent study also reveals that common flu symptoms may be linked to 139 different studies. A groundbreaking study by scientists from the UC Irvine Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences in California has highlighted the link between persistent olfactory loss and inflammation, which is associated with numerous health conditions. Published in the journal Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience, the study emphasizes that olfactory dysfunction could be an early warning sign for diseases ranging from COVID-19 to neurological and psychological disorders.

What is flu?

It is a common viral infection, that can be deadly, especially in high-risk groups, but is generally easily treated. It can spread easily, but is preventable by vaccine, and self treatable and diagnosable. Over the counter medicines also help.

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The flu attacks the lungs, nose, and throat and is caused by the influenza virus. It is a seasonal disease and could be called an epidemic, when it makes many people sick, all at once, in a confined area. Flu, in fact, is one of the most common infectious diseases.

Is there any difference between cold, flu and coronavirus?

According to Dr. William Brian Glenn from Hackensack Meridian Medical Group, while all three illnesses share similar symptoms, some unique signs can help differentiate them. Colds, the flu, and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, but they all present with cough, sore throat, runny nose, and general fatigue. However, COVID-19 comes with additional symptoms, including loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, nausea, and in some cases, diarrhea or vomiting.

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One of the first indicators is the onset of symptoms. Colds generally appear gradually over time, while flu symptoms are more sudden and intense. In contrast, COVID-19 symptoms may take anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to surface. Additionally, while colds are often mild, COVID-19 can progress to more severe conditions such as difficulty breathing and chest pain, particularly in high-risk individuals.