El Paso Faces Rising Flu Activity as Cases Surge Nationwide

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AI Summary
Flu activity in the U.S. is experiencing a significant increase, with the CDC reporting over 7.5 million cases, 81,000 hospitalizations, and 3,100 deaths this season as of December 20. The current flu season is marked by a rapid rise in cases, particularly due to a new variant known as subclade K, which is challenging existing immunity. Hospitalizations have doubled recently, with over 19,000 reported in the last week. Vaccination rates are declining, with only 130 million doses distributed this season, prompting health officials to urge those unvaccinated to get their flu shots as soon as possible to mitigate severe outcomes.
Key Details: • CDC reports over 7.5 million flu cases and 3,100 deaths this season. • Hospitalizations have increased to over 19,000 in the last week. • New flu variant subclade K is contributing to the surge in cases. • Only 130 million flu vaccines have been distributed this season, down 13 million from last year. • Health officials recommend vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older.