CDC Reports Low Flu Cases Nationwide, But Early Signs of Spread Detected

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Friday that flu cases are low nationwide, but there are early signs that the virus is beginning to spread. According to Alicia Budd, head of the CDC’s domestic influenza surveillance team, “Even these low levels will probably increase in the next couple of weeks.”

The CDC report shows that by the end of last week, most states in the U.S. had low or minimal flu-related hospital visits. Most of the flu cases reported so far this season are influenza type A, specifically the H1N1 strain.

The agency is not detecting the unusually early rise in flu activity that occurred last year, when kids and teenagers were hit especially hard. This year, the CDC has not detected an early rise in flu activity either.

The CDC recommends that people take preventive measures to protect themselves from the flu, such as getting a flu shot, washing their hands often, and avoiding contact with people who are sick. It is also important to stay home if you are feeling ill and to contact a healthcare provider if you have any flu-like symptoms.

The CDC is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the flu season progresses. It is important to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family from the flu.