ANNAPOLIS, MD — With the holiday season just around the corner, Maryland is witnessing an uptick in influenza cases, as indicated by recent state data.
Although overall flu activity remains relatively low, there were 1,219 reported cases for the week ending November 29, a rise from 963 cases the week before, according to a dashboard from the Maryland Department of Health.
Health officials have confirmed that three adults have succumbed to the flu this season, with 334 individuals requiring hospitalization.
The state also noted a positivity rate of 13.5% for that week, an increase from 9% the prior week. The predominant strain currently circulating is Influenza A, accounting for 75.8% of reported cases.
“Getting a flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu,” emphasized Maryland health officials. “The flu vaccine has proven to lessen flu-related illnesses and reduce the risk of severe complications that could lead to hospitalization or even death.”
Influenza, widely known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness triggered by influenza viruses that affect the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs.
There are two main types of influenza viruses: A and B. Certain groups, such as individuals aged 65 and older, young children, and those with specific health issues, are at a higher risk for severe complications from the flu, according to health experts.
The flu virus primarily spreads through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. These droplets can easily land in the mouths or noses of nearby individuals.
Additionally, a person can contract the flu by touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Flu Symptoms
Common symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Since these symptoms can resemble those of the common cold and COVID-19, distinguishing between these illnesses without diagnostic tests can be difficult.
In a recent interview with WBAL, Dr. Hannah Goldberg from Mercy Medical Center noted an increase in patients presenting with illness after Thanksgiving.
“We’re seeing a lot of upper respiratory infections, and most treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms. Antibiotics generally aren’t effective for upper respiratory infections,” Goldberg explained.
Typically, flu season peaks in February, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
