For the past few years, the flu has claimed fewer lives than COVID-19. A new report reveals the flu is now deadlier than COVID-19, fueling public health concerns. With low vaccination rates, experts are cautioning this could be one of the worst flu seasons. It is important to be proactive when it comes to keeping yourself healthy and those around you.
Increasing Flu Cases
Since December, flu-related deaths in California have surpassed those attributed to COVID-19, approximately 2 percent of deaths. This signals a return to pre-pandemic flu patterns but with increased risks due to lower vaccination rates, especially among children. According to the CDC, flu vaccinations among individuals six months to 17 years old have decreased to 45 percent, down from 58 percent in 2020.
Current flu strains include H1N1 and H3N2 variants of influenza A. Influenza B is expected to be active in the second half of the season. Since July, California recorded 561 flu-related deaths, with the majority of those over 65. Pediatric flu deaths have also been reported, highlighting the virus’s impact on vulnerable populations.
Importance of Monitoring Your Health
Given the uptick in flu cases this year it is more important than ever to monitor your health. An indicator of illness is an elevated body temperature, which signals the early stages of infection. Checking your temperature twice daily with a reliable and accurate thermometer, such as Exergen’s Temporal Artery Thermometer, can help detect fever early and guide timely medical intervention.
Unlike traditional thermometers, the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is easy to use, non-invasive, and provides clinically accurate readings with a simple forehead scan. This makes it ideal for families, healthcare workers, and individuals who need to monitor their temperatures. Early detection of fever allows for prompt medical attention and the initiation of antiviral treatments, which can impact the severity of the flu.
Tips for Staying Healthy During the Flu Season
In addition to temperature monitoring, the CDC recommends several key precautions to reduce the risk of flu infection:
- Get vaccinated – The flu vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness.
- Practice good hygiene – Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers to help reduce viral spread.
- Avoid touching your face – Viruses can enter the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Improve indoor air quality – Proper ventilation or the use of air purifiers can reduce airborne viral particles.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals – Limiting exposure to infected individuals can prevent transmission.
- Wear masks in crowded indoor spaces – This precaution remains effective in reducing respiratory virus spread.
For those who contract the flu, doctors often prescribe antiviral medications to lessen the symptoms. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help manage fever and body aches.
Stay Informed
As flu-related deaths continue to rise in certain parts of the U.S., we will keep our readers informed about the latest developments and health recommendations. Taking proactive measures, such as regular temperature checks and vaccination, remains crucial in safeguarding your health during this severe flu season.
Sources:
EXERGEN P/N 850388, Rev 1