"Coughing Everywhere, Flu Spread Continues... 7 Times the Epidemic Threshold"

The influenza (flu) epidemic continues. In particular, the spread is faster than last year, so more attention must be paid to infection prevention.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 2nd, the number of patients showing suspected flu symptoms per 1,000 outpatients in the 47th week of this year (November 19?25) was 45.8. This is a 22% increase compared to the previous week, November 12?18.

This figure is about 7 times the epidemic threshold of 6.5 for the 2023?2024 flu season. Compared to the same period last year (3.9), it is about 3.3 times higher. Patients with sudden fever over 38 degrees Celsius, cough, and sore throat are classified as suspected flu cases.

The flu is spreading mainly among children and adolescents. The numbers for ages 7?12 and 13?18 are 100.9 and 104.0 respectively, which correspond to 15.5 times and 16 times the epidemic threshold. For other age groups, 19?49 years old 53.2, 1?6 years old 35.3, 50?64 years old 24.4, 0 years old 20.5, and 65 years and older 11.8 were recorded.

Influenza is an infectious respiratory disease caused by infection with the influenza virus. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required or it can lead to death. Seniors aged 65 and older, children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of complications or hospitalization.

Currently, free flu vaccinations are being provided for children aged 6 months to 13 years, pregnant women, and the elderly aged 65 and above. The Disease Control and Prevention Agency urged compliance with respiratory infection prevention guidelines such as wearing masks and participation in flu vaccination.

This year, cases of Mycoplasma pneumonia are also increasing mainly among children, requiring special attention to personal health management. This respiratory infectious disease tends to spread in cycles of 3 to 4 years, and this year is its outbreak cycle. Coinfection with multiple infectious diseases increases the likelihood of severe illness.

If you have a respiratory infectious disease, you should rest at home without attending school, daycare, or work until the infectiousness disappears.