CDC: Flu cases in Massachusetts increase by 84% this week

The flu is increasing both in Massachusetts and the country as a whole.

According to statistics compiled by the CDC, laboratory-confirmed influenza cases increased by 84% this week. More influenza A than influenza B positive specimens have been reported by hospitals and outpatient facilities in Massachusetts. For influenza A, the predominant strain is currently H3N2.

The number of influenza vaccine doses administered this flu season is comparable to last season in the same week. The vaccination rate for all ages is 47%.

Despite the sharp increase in cases in the state, influenza severity for Massachusetts is still low this week.

The percent of influenza-like illness (ILI) visits in Massachusetts is 1.14%, which is lower than the regional baseline of 2.0%.

The percent of hospitalizations associated with influenza is 0.22%, which is lower than two of the previous seasons, but higher than the last season in the same week.

Overall ILI activity is minimal, but increasing. All regions are reporting minimal ILI activity.

Nationally, influenza activity is increasing in most of the country.

Influenza-like illness is defined as fever (temperature of 100 deg F or greater) in addition to cough and/or sore throat. Many more people are infected with influenza than are tested for influenza.