The recent spike in influenza cases in Alaska is a concern, as the state is seeing a rise in flu-like illnesses that have made up 5% of emergency room visits in the past week. Joe McLaughlin, the chief epidemiologist, noted that this flu season has been one of the most severe across the country, with high hospitalization and death rates, though Alaska’s rates are still somewhat lower than the rest of the U.S.
McLaughlin pointed out that while Alaska’s flu rates are high for this time of year, they haven’t reached the levels seen during the peak of past flu seasons.
The state doesn’t track real-time flu-related hospitalizations and deaths, making it difficult to compare the severity to the national level. He mentioned several factors that could be contributing to the high flu rates, including lower vaccination coverage, a more virulent strain of the virus, or reduced effectiveness of the flu vaccine this year.
Those most at risk include individuals over 65, children under 5, and people with underlying medical conditions.
McLaughlin recommended frequent handwashing, staying home if you’re sick, and getting the flu vaccine to reduce the spread of the virus and minimize the severity of illness. Flu shots are available to everyone aged 6 months and older.