Flu activity in California is surging well ahead of schedule, with test positivity rates at nearly 10%—far above the usual 1% seen in early October—due to a mutation of the H1N1 influenza A strain. Health officials are warning of an unusually early spike in cases, as flu season typically begins in December and peaks in February. The unexpected rise has prompted experts to emphasize the importance of this year’s annual flu vaccine. With cases climbing faster than expected, public health advisories may soon follow to curb potential outbreaks.
California flu test rate at 9.65%, higher than normal 1% rate for early October, amid mutation of H1N1 influenza A strainFlu cases on the west coast are on the rise months earlier than normal, prompting US health experts to stress the importance of the annual vaccine.Flu activity typically ramps up in December, hitting its peak in February. But this season has kicked into action earlier this year, with higher positive cases than normal recorded. Continue reading...
