The United States is observing a sharp increase in flu cases, increasing concerns between health officials. Recent reports suggest that Influenza has now crossed Kovid -19 as a deadly virus in this winter. The Disease Control and Prevention Center (CDC) estimates that since October 2024, at least 29 million has been infected with US flu, causing 370,000 hospitals and 16,000 deaths.

Why is the flu more dangerous this year? For the first time since the Kovid -19 epidemic, the flu -related deaths have crossed the people caused by Kovid -19. Experts believe that many factors have contributed to this growth:

– Low immune level: During the Covid-19 lockdown, the flu exposure was minimal due to restrictions like mask mandate and social deformity. Now that these measures have been removed, people’s immune systems are less ready to fight infection.

– Vaccine hesitation: Many people hesitate to take flu shots due to concerns on side effects. CDC data suggests that the flu vaccine is less than expected this year, which increases the risk of severe outbreaks.

– Mutating Flu Strain: Flu virus develops continuously, and some circulating strains appear more severe in this season, causing high hospitalization and mortality.

Hospitals struggling amidst growth in flu

The increase in flu cases has put heavy pressure on hospitals, especially in California, where influenza has become the most deadly respiratory disease. Many healthcare facilities are reporting congested emergency rooms and shortage of employees. CDC has classified this flu season extremely severely for all age groups-such a classification has been done since the 2017-18 flu season.

Should you be worried?

While the symptoms of the flu may look light at the first time, they can quickly deteriorate, especially in weak groups with young children, elderly and weak immune systems. This includes symptoms for joining:

– Fever and chills

– persistent cough

– sore throat

– Body pain

– Tiredness

– Shortness of breath (in severe cases)

How to protect yourself from flu

As the flu cases increase, it is important to take preventive measures to stay healthy. Here are some effective ways to save yourself and your loved ones:

1. Vaccination: A flu shot is the best rescue against serious illness and hospitalization.

2. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

3. Avoid close contact with sick people: If a person around you is unhealthy, maintain distance and avoid physical contact.

4. Wear a mask in crowded places: especially in high -risk areas such as hospitals or public transport.

5. Promote your immune system: Eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep to help fight your body.

6. Disinfected surfaces repeatedly touched: Flu viruses can survive on surfaces, so regular cleaning can prevent their spread.

7. Stay at home if you are ill: Relaxation and separation yourself can help prevent the flu from spreading to others.

Will the flu become another epidemic?

Although the flu is spreading rapidly, health officials believe it is unlikely to reach the level of epidemic like Kovid -19. However, they warns that the vaccine continues to hesitate and the emergence of strong flu strains may worsen the situation in the coming months.

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