Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 17, 2025 3 days, 14 hours, 48 minutes ago
U.S. Medical News: Flu Deaths Rising Faster Than COVID Mortality Rates
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, influenza deaths in the United States are outpacing those caused by COVID-19. According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu-related deaths accounted for 2.6% of total fatalities in the country in early February, while COVID-19 deaths made up approximately 1.5%. This shift marks a significant change in the landscape of respiratory illnesses, indicating a potential return to flu’s historical dominance as a leading cause of seasonal viral deaths.
https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2025-week-06.html
Flu Deaths Surpassing COVID-19 Mortality Rates in the United States
Health experts have pointed out that while the flu’s mortality rate has remained largely unchanged, the sheer increase in infections has led to a corresponding rise in deaths. This
U.S. Medical News report highlights that one of the main factors contributing to this surge in flu cases is the declining rate of flu vaccinations this season. A lower number of vaccinated individuals means more people are susceptible to infection, which in turn leads to increased hospitalizations and fatalities.
Flu Declared a High-Severity Threat by U.S. CDC
The CDC has now classified this flu season as a "high severity" event for all age groups - a designation that has not been used since the severe 2017-2018 flu season. The classification is based on high infection rates, increased hospital admissions, and a rising number of deaths. Over the past 11 weeks, outpatient visits for flu-like illnesses have exceeded seasonal baselines, and 46 states are reporting high or very high flu activity levels. Young adults and children under the age of 24 are experiencing the highest rates of flu infections and hospitalizations.
In many parts of the country, flu deaths are significantly outnumbering COVID-related fatalities. The disparity is particularly evident in states such as California, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Wyoming, where flu deaths have reached double the number of COVID-related deaths in some weeks. While partial CDC data shows that the flu is currently the leading cause of respiratory disease-related deaths, more comprehensive statistics are expected in the coming weeks.
Why Are Flu Cases Surging This Season
Several factors are contributing to the higher flu activity and related fatalities this season. The most critical is the drop in flu vaccination rates. Many Americans opted out of getting their flu shots, leading to a reduced level of herd immunity. Additionally, after years of pandemic restrictions such as mask mandates and social distancing, people have returned to pre-pandemic levels of social interaction, increasing exposure to infectious respiratory illnesses.
Another concern is the effectiveness of this season’s flu vaccine. While the vaccine remains the best defense against severe illness, it is not 100% effective, and in seasons where flu stra
ins mutate significantly, vaccine efficacy may be lower. This year’s strain appears to be particularly aggressive, contributing to higher hospitalization rates and complications, especially among older adults and those with preexisting health conditions.
What This Means Moving Forward
The increase in flu deaths relative to COVID-19 marks a significant shift in public health trends. For the past three years, COVID-19 dominated discussions around viral outbreaks, with extensive vaccination campaigns, public health restrictions, and medical interventions aimed at controlling its spread. However, as COVID-19 cases decline and immunity from prior infections and vaccinations strengthens, flu is once again emerging as a major seasonal health threat.
Public health officials are urging individuals, especially those at higher risk, to get their flu shots if they have not done so already. While flu vaccines may not completely prevent infection, they significantly reduce the chances of severe illness and hospitalization. Additional preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded spaces when experiencing symptoms, and wearing masks in high-risk environments, can help curb the spread of influenza.
Conclusion
This flu season serves as a stark reminder that while COVID-19 remains a serious health concern, influenza continues to be a formidable virus. The current data suggest that flu deaths have now surpassed COVID-19 deaths for the first time since the pandemic began, with rates reaching as high as 2.6% of total national deaths. Factors such as low vaccination rates, increased social interactions, and an aggressive flu strain have all contributed to the surge in flu-related hospitalizations and fatalities. Moving forward, public health efforts must refocus on promoting flu vaccinations and educating the public on preventive measures. It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.
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