Massachusetts has reported over 30 flu-related deaths this season, including three children, as flu activity across the state reaches "very high" levels. Hospitalizations due to influenza have also increased, occurring approximately one month earlier than the previous year's surge. Public health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19, noting a decrease in vaccination rates compared to the last flu season.
Overall Flu Activity
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has reported that flu activity across the state is "very high and rising," marking the first time this season it has reached this level. Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein characterized flu viruses as serious and life-threatening. Dr. Larry Madoff, medical director of the DPH bureau of infectious disease and laboratory sciences, described the current situation as a "severe early flu season" and stated that further deaths would not be unexpected.
Fatalities
This season, over 30 flu-related deaths have been reported in Massachusetts. This total includes three children. One child fatality occurred during the week ending December 27. Information regarding the dates and specific details of the other two child fatalities, including their ages, has not been publicly released by the DPH. Additionally, 29 adult deaths attributed to influenza have been reported this season. Source 2 also indicates that the DPH reported a total of 10 pediatric flu deaths for the 2024-2025 season to date, a figure identified as a record high. Children under the age of two are considered to be at the highest risk of flu-related mortality, with severe cases also observed in children up to five years old. The state is also investigating two potential COVID-19-associated deaths and one RSV-associated death in patients under 18 years of age.
Hospitalization Trends
The percentage of hospitalizations associated with influenza has increased in recent weeks. Data indicates that 9% of all hospitalizations statewide are attributed to influenza, an increase from 5% in the preceding week. This rise precedes the timing of last year's surge by approximately one month. During the 2022-2023 winter season, flu-related hospitalizations peaked at 10.5% in early February, with a total of 470 deaths recorded.
Vaccination Efforts
State data indicates that approximately 34% of Massachusetts residents have received a flu vaccination this year, a decrease from the approximately 45% vaccination rate observed during the 2022-2023 winter season. Public health officials are encouraging residents to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19. Dr. Goldstein urged residents to get vaccinated if they have not already. Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Boston Public Health Commissioner, noted that full protection from the flu vaccine typically develops about two weeks after administration. Dr. Madoff highlighted that vaccination rates have been low this year, with roughly 1 in 9 residents vaccinated against COVID-19 and 1 in 3 against influenza. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination for individuals aged six months and older.
Local Impact: Boston
In Boston, health officials reported an increasing rate of flu infections, with a 114% increase in flu cases observed in late December. The most significant rise has occurred among children. Specifically, children under five years old have shown an 83% increase in infections, while older children have experienced a 217% rise. Boston is offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics during January for individuals aged six months and older.
Healthcare System Response and Other Respiratory Viruses
Beth Israel Lahey Health and Mass General Brigham have implemented mask requirements for health care providers. Patients and visitors are encouraged, but not required, to wear masks in these facilities. The state's health department has indicated that while COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are not currently widespread, cases for both are beginning to increase.