CDC reports 10 pediatric flu-related deaths within week

Ten additional pediatric influenza-related deaths have occurred within the second week of the 2017-2018 influenza season, according to a report issued by the CDC, bringing the total number of influenza-associated pediatric deaths to 30 for the season.

Additionally, the current rate of influenza-like illness presented in outpatient settings has increased to 6.3%, well above the national baseline of 2.2%. Of those who have laboratory-confirmed influenza, 31.5 per 100,00 required hospitalization.

According to the CDC, the most commonly reported influenza virus subtype was influenza A(H3), with 82% of cases having confirmed disease caused by this subtype.

As of Friday, Jan. 13, 49 states and Puerto Rico have widespread influenza, with Hawaii and the District of Columbia experiencing local activity. Guam has reported regional activity, and the United States Virgin Islands report sporadic influenza activity.

Source: Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report