Influenza Surveillance Update – Lynette Brammer (CDC)
Lynette provided an update on influenza activity for Week 3, ending January 18, 2020. After 2 weeks of declines, influenza activity is on the rise again.
Clinical labs reported 25.6% of submitted specimens were positive for influenza, an increase from the previous week.
Public health labs reported widespread influenza. Although B Victoria has been the predominant strain seen throughout this season, influenza A(H1N1) is definitely increasing. Strain differences continue to be seen among different age groups.
Outpatient influenza-like illness (ILI) activity increased from 4.7% the previous week to 5.0% during the reporting week. This increase is not unexpected, as we move out of the holiday period and children return to school. Thirty-five (35) states, New York City, and Puerto Rico reported high levels of ILI, while 6 states and the District of Columbia reported moderate ILI. For geographic spread, 48 states and Puerto Rico reported widespread influenza activity.
Cumulative hospitalization rates were at 24.1 per 100,000 for the overall population. This level is typical when compared to recent seasons. Rates tend to be highest in persons younger than 50 years. Rates of reported pneumonia and influenza (P&I) were at 6.7%, below the threshold level of 7.1%.
Fifteen (15) influenza-related pediatric deaths were reported during the week, bringing the 2019–2020 total for pediatric deaths to 54. Thirty-seven (37) of these deaths were associated with B Victoria.
In response to a question, Lynnette speculated that we may see increased health-seeking behaviors among persons with flu symptoms who are concerned about potential coronavirus infection. This can result in a higher number of specimens tested.
Announcements – David Kim
- 2020 Summit Immunization Excellence Awards – David reminded partners that the deadline to submit nominations for these awards has been extended to February 10, 2020. This year’s awards will be presented during a dinner at the Summit meeting on the evening of May 18.
- Summit Call Schedule – Summit calls are held each Thursday at 3 pm ET unless otherwise cancelled via an email announcement.
