Flu Cases Surge to Highest Level in 25 Years, CDC Says

Washington, D.C. (KFMO) - Flu cases across the United States have reached their highest levels in 25 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, raising concerns among health officials as the virus circulates widely this season.

Dr. Martin Topiel with Virtua Health says part of the increase is being blamed on fewer people choosing to get vaccinated against the flu.

Dr. Topiel notes that this year’s flu shot does not fully protect against some of the newer strains that are circulating, but he emphasizes it still offers important benefits.

He adds that prevention efforts remain critical.

Health experts are now looking for new ways to encourage more people to get their flu vaccine during what appears to be a more severe flu season.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients were more likely to get vaccinated when doctors sent reminder text messages ahead of scheduled appointments. The CDC says that even during an average flu season, the virus can lead to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths nationwide.

While not perfect, health officials say flu vaccines can help reduce the severity of illness and lower the risk of serious complications.