Early Flu Season May Be Weakening in Some Areas, but Not Over
The CDC provided an update on the 2012-2013 flu season and vaccine effectiveness to members of the media on Friday, January 11. Members of the CDC said that this year’s flu season did indeed start early, and that they anticipate another 12 weeks or so of increased activity. As of January 11, 24 states and New York City were reporting high levels of flu activity, down from 29 states in the prior week; 16 states were reporting moderate levels, up from 9 states. Overall, 47 states are reporting widespread flu activity. Researchers with the CDC have estimated this year’s vaccine to have an effectiveness of 62%, saying that the vaccine “is far from perfect” but still the best tool available to prevent the flu.
To hear an audio transcript of the update, click here.
