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 has declined since February, but remains elevated.
  • Geographic spread is regional: ILI activity remains elevated in three of seven regions of Massachusetts including Central, Inner Metro Boston, and Southeast regions. Influenza laboratory confirmations remain elevated in all regions of the state.
  • Influenza-associated hospitalizations in Massachusetts have declined since February.
  • The number of influenza positive laboratory tests reported to MDPH decreased this week by 19.0% compared to last week.
  • For the 2018-2019 season to date, the predominant influenza strain is A/2009 H1N1; however, over recent weeks influenza B has become more common than influenza A.
  • 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 typical 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: May 17, 2019

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