BRAINTREE, Mass. — Some experts say it’s the worst flu season they’ve seen nationally in the last 15 years. In Massachusetts, recent hospitalization rates have been proving that point.
The CDC estimates roughly 24 million flu-like illnesses across the country. That’s followed by around 310,000 hospitalizations leading to 13,000 deaths.
Dr. Shira Doron, chief infection control officer at Tufts Medicine Health Center, said this is a normal flu season -- but more people are coming to the hospital or doctors’ offices with the flu than in recent history.
“I’m seeing a lot of flu,” said Doron. “We are considered in the high range for influenza hospital admissions and in the high range for influenza emergency visits.”
According to the Massachusetts Department of Health, roughly 10% of sentinel provider visits were for flu-like symptoms. That’s the highest rate at this time of year since 2019.
The state’s website also claims influenza-like illness is considered very high in all parts of Massachusetts.
Doron explained, “We are high, but it looks like it’s starting to level off in Massachusetts… This year’s circulating flu is causing a lot of severe complications in babies.”
She explained she’s seen more babies with brain inflammation because of the flu than ever before.
Archbishop Williams High School in Braintree was forced to shut down last week because of the flu and other illnesses.
Their Principal, Dr. Michael R. Volonnino, said in a statement:
“Due to an unusually high number of student and faculty absences caused by illness, Archbishop Williams High School made the proactive decision to close on January 30 to allow for a thorough disinfection of our campus, prioritizing the health and well-being of our community.”
Health experts continue to emphasize the importance of keeping a healthy lifestyle and getting your flu vaccine to defend yourself this season.
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