Flu Cases Skyrocket in Boston: Why You Should Care

Boston is facing a significant increase in flu cases this year, with numbers rising sharply in December. Health officials are urging everyone to take precautions, especially as more people gather indoors during the winter months. The city has seen a 114% jump in flu cases in just the first two weeks of December. Emergency room visits related to the flu have also gone up by 44% in the same period. Children are particularly affected, with infection rates among those aged 5 to 17 skyrocketing by 217%. Even younger kids, under 5 years old, have seen an 83% increase in cases. This early surge is concerning, as last year's flu season didn't peak until February. The current numbers are nearly seven times higher than they were at the same time last year. A new strain of the flu virus, called "subclade K, " is spreading globally, including in the U. S. However, health officials say this strain isn't more severe than others. Still, it's a reminder that the flu virus is always evolving. Only 30% of Boston residents have gotten their flu shot so far this season. Health officials are encouraging everyone, especially children and older adults, to get vaccinated. Vaccines are one of the best ways to protect yourself and others from serious illness.In addition to getting vaccinated, health officials recommend practicing good hygiene, like washing your hands regularly and staying home when you're sick. They also suggest increasing ventilation in homes and wearing masks if you're around people who are at high risk of severe illness. This includes young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems. Boston is also keeping an eye on COVID-19 levels, which have increased by 909% in the past two weeks. However, these levels are still relatively low compared to previous trends. The city has been hosting free vaccine clinics across different neighborhoods, with over 2, 500 people vaccinated so far. These clinics will continue throughout January, and more information can be found on the city's website or by calling the Mayor's Health Line.