United States: Massachusetts is grappling with a surge in flu cases, with 11 deaths reported within a week, raising concerns among local health authorities. Recent data from the US CDC highlights a significant rise in flu cases in the state.
The US state of Massachusetts is facing heightened concerns as it reports a substantial increase in flu cases, according to recent statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Health authorities have raised alarms as Massachusetts witnesses 11 flu-related deaths in the past week, bringing the total death toll for the season to 113.
How are health experts addressing the challenges posed by the high number of cases?
Dr. Andrew Koslow, the associate medical director of AFC for Massachusetts, emphasizes the importance of vaccination as the primary defense against the flu. He stated, “The first line of defense against the flu is to get vaccinated,” adding that antiviral medications are a secondary option for severe cases or high-risk individuals.
Dr. Koslow also advises the public on preventive measures:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least two minutes and dry them completely.
- Practice social distancing.
- Wear face masks, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
- Stay home if experiencing flu-like symptoms or respiratory illness.
- Regularly disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs.
Regarding symptoms, Dr. Koslow notes that flu typically presents with fever, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, chills, body aches, and fatigue.
Flu-related cases:
The CDC reports over 24 million flu infections and more than 260,000 hospital admissions during this ongoing season.
How are individuals coping with the disease?
David Whalen, a resident of West Springfield, mentioned wearing a mask in crowded spaces and getting vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19 to protect himself.