The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is warning of a significant rise in influenza activity and hospital admissions statewide, coinciding with the emergence of a new strain of the virus, specifically the H3N2 subclade K. This strain has been detected in California, raising concerns among health officials and prompting calls for vaccination as the flu season progresses.
State Health Officer Dr. Erica Pan emphasized that current seasonal vaccines are still effective in reducing the severity of illness and hospitalizations associated with the circulating viruses. “Vaccines, tests, and treatments remain widely available,” she stated, adding that it is not too late for individuals to receive their flu shots. Dr. Pan also mentioned that she has ensured her own family is vaccinated.
As of now, California has reported its second pediatric flu-associated fatality for the current season. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of vaccination for everyone aged six months and older. Health officials are advising rapid testing for symptomatic individuals who are at risk for severe disease and immediate antiviral treatment for high-risk and hospitalized patients.
Local clinicians are echoing the need for preventive measures as flu circulation increases. Dr. Kenny Banh, a professor of clinical emergency medicine at UCSF Fresno, highlighted the benefits of annual influenza vaccinations. He noted that they significantly reduce infections and, for those who do contract the virus despite being vaccinated, they mitigate the duration and severity of symptoms. More importantly, vaccinations lead to a reduction in hospitalizations and mortality rates.
To further combat the spread of influenza, Dr. Banh recommended avoiding close contact in poorly ventilated spaces, maintaining hand hygiene, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. He suggested using masks or coughing into an elbow as effective strategies to minimize transmission.
The CDPH encourages Californians to schedule flu vaccinations through healthcare providers, local pharmacies, or the state’s vaccination scheduling website, myturn.ca.gov. Residents are also urged to consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) resources for additional guidance on prevention measures.
As the flu season continues, public health officials stress the importance of vaccination and adherence to preventive practices to protect individuals and communities alike.
