This week's report

Highlights

Highlights from this week’s report:

  • There is still time to get a flu shot to ensure you are protected as flu activity continues.
  • Influenza-like illness activity in Massachusetts remains elevated.
  • Geographic spread is widespread: ILI activity remains elevated in all regions of Massachusetts except the West, whereas influenza laboratory confirmations remains elevated for all regions of the state.
  • Influenza-associated hospitalizations in Massachusetts have gradually declined since February but remain elevated, consistent with activity levels normally seen at this time of year.
  • The number of influenza positive laboratory tests reported to MDPH decreased this week by 27.2% compared to last week.
  • For the 2018-2019 season to date, the predominant influenza strain is A/2009 H1N1; however, over recent weeks influenza strain A/H3N2 has become more common than the A/2009 H1N1 strain, and Influenza B has also increased.
  • All influenza strains that have been characterized in Massachusetts this season to date are covered by the current influenza vaccine.
  • No resistance to antiviral medications has been detected this season.
  • Nationally, flu activity is decreasing, consistent with normal levels of activity at this time of year.
  • Additional data are available upon request and at www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly.

Additional Resources

Date published: April 26, 2019

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