The United States is experiencing a widespread flu outbreak like none ever recorded before and the CDC is sending precautionary statements to warn people to take it seriously and especially protect your children. The flu shots that were given this year do not cover all strains of the influenza virus that is circulating and causing deaths across the nation. In New York the number of flu cases is alarmingly high and continuing to rise. Last year only 4, 400 cases were reported, and this year so far more than 15,000 cases have been documented. That’s an increase near 250%. Boston has declared a state of emergency. Hospitalizations are being reported as a rise of 169% from last year and the season isn’t near ending. 18 Children have died nationwide from this flu seasons virus strain.
According to the CDC 48 states are reporting a widespread increase in the spread of the flu for the week ending January 5, 2013; Also stating “The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) based on the 122 Cities Mortality Reporting System is now slightly above the epidemic threshold for the first time this season.”
For more information refer to the Center for Disease Control webpage
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