US Faces Most Severe Flu Season in 15 Years as Shape-Shifting Virus Raises Concerns

The United States is experiencing its most severe flu season in 15 years, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting at least 24 million influenza cases, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths this season.

Emergency department visits due to acute respiratory illness have reached alarming levels, with 20-24% of visits attributed to respiratory conditions, and approximately 9% specifically due to influenza A.

A groundbreaking study published in Nature Microbiology has revealed that influenza A viral particles can adapt their shape between spheres and larger filaments to enhance their survival and infectivity. With a change in genome, it can rapidly change shape to its survival advantage, explains Dr. Thomas Russo, professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo.

The CDC data shows influenza type A as the predominant virus spreading across the country, with particularly high activity reported in multiple states. For the first time since the pandemic began, flu deaths have exceeded COVID-19 mortality rates.

Health experts are particularly concerned about declining vaccination rates among children. As of November 2024, only 37% of children had received their flu shot, compared to 43% in 2023. Children are much more likely to be in close physical contact with each other, especially very young children who may be in day care or preschool, as well as elementary-school-age kids, notes Dr. Daniel R. Kuritzkes.

Healthcare professionals strongly recommend the following preventive measures: - Getting vaccinated against the flu - Washing hands frequently - Wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces - Staying home when sick - Maintaining good ventilation in indoor spaces

The CDC expects elevated flu activity to continue for several more weeks, with the season typically extending from October to May and peaking in February.