This year, only one child has succumbed to the flu, a significant decrease compared to previous years when hundreds of pediatric flu-related deaths were reported. Over the last year, widespread mask-wearing and social distancing measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a notable reduction in flu cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 2020-21 flu season has seen only one pediatric death from the virus in the U.S.
The CDC’s latest weekly report confirms, “No new influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported to CDC during week 8. The total for the 2020-21 season is one.” In stark contrast, the 2019-20 flu season recorded 195 child fatalities from the flu. The measures taken to mitigate COVID-19 spread have, in turn, significantly curtailed flu infections. Lynnette Brammer, who leads the CDC’s domestic influenza surveillance team, noted that only 0.1 percent of flu tests are returning positive this season, compared to 20 to 30 percent in previous years.
Flor Munoz, a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ infectious-diseases committee, commented, “The obliteration of the flu epidemic globally suggests that mask usage has had a profound effect on how influenza is transmitted.” In comparison, the 2018-19 flu season saw 144 pediatric flu deaths, while 188 children died during the 2017-18 season.
Adults are also experiencing a decline in flu-related fatalities this season, with approximately 450 reported so far, down from around 22,000 last year. Epidemiologist Aaron Milstone from Johns Hopkins University states, “This clearly demonstrates that masking, distancing, and hand-washing work effectively.” The critical question remains whether people will maintain these practices to prevent flu outbreaks as well.
However, experts caution that the upcoming flu season may present challenges. Scientists face difficulties in identifying the dominant flu strain this year, complicating vaccine development for the next season. Andrea Kovacs, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Southern California, warns, “They may not guess the right strains for the vaccine.” Furthermore, if COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, there’s potential for a late flu surge, making it challenging to predict the season’s trajectory.
For more insights into home insemination, check out this helpful resource: IVF Babble. Additionally, if you’re interested in boosting fertility, visit Make a Mom’s fertility booster for men.
Search Queries:
- What are the flu death statistics for children?
- How does flu transmission change with masks?
- What can we expect for the upcoming flu season?
- How have COVID-19 measures affected flu cases?
- What are effective ways to prevent the flu?
In summary, the flu season this year has been markedly less lethal for children, with only one reported pediatric death compared to hundreds in previous years. This decline can largely be attributed to the public health measures implemented to control COVID-19. Experts are cautiously optimistic but warn of potential challenges ahead as the next flu season approaches.