Summary
Flu and norovirus cases are rising across the United States as people prepare for holiday travel. Health officials are concerned about a new strain of flu and high norovirus levels, which could affect gatherings and overwhelm healthcare services.
Key Facts
- A new strain of flu, H3N2 subclade K, is dominant and may not match well with the flu vaccine.
- About 4.6 million flu cases, 49,000 hospitalizations, and 1,900 deaths have occurred in the U.S. this flu season.
- Norovirus, known for causing vomiting and diarrhea, has increased by 69% across the U.S. since October.
- Some school districts closed due to outbreaks of flu and norovirus.
- The holiday season is expected to see 122 million Americans traveling, raising the risk of spreading these viruses.
- Health officials recommend staying home if sick, washing hands thoroughly, and getting flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
