Over 7.5 Million Cases, 3,100 Deaths as 'New Influenza' Spreads in the U.S.

Infections Likely Increased Due to Year-End Events
Current Vaccine Does Not Match Variant but Reduces Severity

As a new strain of influenza spreads rapidly in the United States, the cumulative death toll has surpassed 3,100.

Citizens receiving influenza vaccinations. Photo by The Asia Business Daily

According to the Associated Press on December 31 (local time), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that at least 7.5 million people have contracted the flu this winter season, with 81,000 hospitalized and 3,100 deaths. The death toll includes at least nine children. However, these figures are based on data as of December 20, and the actual number of infections is expected to be higher due to large-scale year-end events such as Christmas.

Currently, a new variant of influenza called 'subclade K' is spreading in the United States. This is a mutation of the H3N2 subtype of the influenza A virus, which first became prevalent in the United Kingdom, Japan, and Canada before spreading to the United States. According to a CDC report, more than half of the states have reached 'high' or 'very high' levels of influenza-related illnesses. In particular, New York state health authorities reported that 71,000 flu cases were recorded in a single week, the highest weekly figure for any state since 2004.

Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, said, "Because the flu season has just begun, it is difficult to predict exactly how it will unfold," adding, "At present, it appears that infections are increasing rapidly." Health authorities also stated that it is still too early to determine whether this season's flu outbreak will reach the severe levels seen last season. In addition, South Carolina, New Jersey, Colorado, and Louisiana are also experiencing serious levels of flu activity.

Experts are urging people to get vaccinated against influenza even now. Although this season's vaccine does not perfectly match subclade K, analysis conducted in the United Kingdom has confirmed that it provides partial protection, including reducing the risk of hospitalization.

Flu seasons dominated by the H3N2 variant typically see a high number of infections and an increase in severe cases. However, Andrew Pekosz, professor at Johns Hopkins University, added that it will take more time to determine whether this subclade K is simply spreading more easily or is actually more dangerous.

Meanwhile, the CDC recommends vaccination for everyone aged six months and older, but actual vaccination rates are declining. About 130 million doses of the vaccine have been distributed this winter, a 10% decrease from last year. As of the end of November last year, vaccination rates stood at 17% for children and 23% for adults. Influenza increases the risk of complications such as otitis media and sinusitis, can progress to pneumonia if treatment is delayed, and in severe cases, can lead to death.