Flu activity has intensified across Illinois and nationally, marked by a significant increase in hospitalizations and the reporting of the state's first influenza-related pediatric death of the season. Public health officials in Illinois have categorized the state's influenza activity as "Very High," the most severe designation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This surge is largely attributed to a new influenza variant, subclade K, even as vaccination and hygiene practices are reinforced as key preventive measures.
Illinois and Chicago Flu Activity
Chicago is experiencing its highest levels of flu-related hospital visits in over three years. Data from the Chicago Department of Public Health indicates an influenza testing positivity rate of approximately 24 percent, with emergency room visits attributed to influenza escalating to "very high" levels, the highest recorded since 2022. Increases in flu activity have been observed across all age groups, with a notable rise among individuals aged 17 years and younger.
Cook County has seen flu-related emergency room visits surpass last year's peak, and intensive care unit admissions related to influenza have doubled. Healthcare professionals have noted a significant increase in severe illness, including patients requiring intensive care and some fatalities. The current surge has been attributed to factors such as holiday gatherings and the return of children to school.
Illinois public health officials reported the state's first influenza-related pediatric death of the current season. The specific location of the child's death within the state or their vaccination status has not been disclosed.
National Overview
Across the United States, flu activity continues to rise, with over 45 states reporting high or very high flu levels. The CDC reports that the current flu season has resulted in an estimated 11 million flu illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths nationwide. Nine pediatric deaths due to influenza have been reported across the country this season.
Approximately 8 percent of healthcare provider visits across the U.S. have been for flu-like illness, defined as patients presenting with a fever accompanied by a cough and/or sore throat. This marks the highest level recorded since 1997.
Viral Strain Information
The majority of this season's flu cases are linked to "subclade K," a variant of the H3N2 virus (a subtype of influenza A). This strain has been circulating internationally since the summer and has been associated with flu spikes in Canada and the United Kingdom. Medical experts suggest that subclade K may reduce the effectiveness of this season's flu vaccine.
Public Health Recommendations
Despite the potential for reduced efficacy against the subclade K variant, vaccination remains a primary recommendation to mitigate severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Free flu vaccinations are accessible in Chicago at numerous pharmacies and the city's standing Immunization Clinics, as well as Rush urgent care clinics.
Public health officials and medical experts emphasize the importance of basic hygiene practices to prevent influenza transmission. Recommended measures include:
- Maintaining overall health and adhering to prescribed medications.
- Ensuring adequate fluid intake.
- Receiving recommended vaccinations.
- Staying home when experiencing a fever to prevent further spread.
- Covering coughs and sneezes.
- Frequent hand washing.
Additionally, factors such as high stress levels and insufficient sleep may increase an individual's susceptibility to influenza.
Other Respiratory Viruses
Regarding other common respiratory viruses, the Chicago Department of Public Health reports that Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity is currently "moderate," while COVID-19 activity "remains low" in the city. Statewide in Illinois, COVID-19 rates have reached "moderate" levels.