Flu Surges Back, Outpacing COVID Deaths in California for the First Time Since 2020
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, influenza is claiming more lives in California than COVID-19. This alarming trend, which has seen flu deaths reach 2% of all deaths in early january, is a stark reminder of the enduring threat posed by seasonal influenza.
“Prior to COVID, influenza was the only epidemic infectious disease in the developed world that every year considerably changes the mortality rates,” said Dr. John Swartzberg, clinical professor emeritus at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health.
The pandemic’s initial years saw a dramatic decline in flu cases due to widespread precautions like social distancing, mask-wearing, and reduced indoor gatherings. These measures, implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19, inadvertently suppressed the usual flu outbreaks that typically kill between 10,000 and 50,000 people annually in the United States.
However,as COVID-19 vaccines became available and the virus’s severity lessened,people relaxed their guard,allowing influenza to re-emerge with its familiar seasonal pattern. This year,however,the surge in flu cases is more pronounced than in recent winters,with the percentage of deaths attributed to the flu reaching levels not seen since the pandemic’s early days.
“This may become the worst influenza season we’ve had so far in the 21st century,” warned Dr. Swartzberg, noting that testing data indicates a near-even split between H1N1 (swine flu) and H3N2, both subtypes of influenza A. Influenza B typically emerges later in the flu season.
One contributing factor to this year’s high flu rates is the decline in flu vaccination rates since the pandemic, especially among children. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 45% of children aged 6 months to 17 years had received the flu vaccine by the end of January 2025, compared to 58% in january 2020.
“if your goal is to avoid illness, you should go back to taking the same precautions you used against getting COVID,” dr. Swartzberg suggests, adding that he has personally resumed masking indoors.
The good news is that it’s not too late to get vaccinated against the flu. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated against the flu,” emphasizes the California Department of Public Health.
California is not alone in facing this surge. School closures have been implemented in over 10 states due to high flu levels, and the CDC reports 57 pediatric flu deaths nationwide this season.
Meanwhile, COVID-19’s impact on mortality rates has significantly decreased. In California, just over 1% of death certificates mentioned COVID-19 in the last week of January, a figure that has remained between 0.6% and 0.8% as October, marking the lowest point since the pandemic’s early months.
Practical Takeaways for Americans:
Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from influenza. It’s not too late to get vaccinated, even if you missed it earlier in the season.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
stay home when you’re sick: Avoid contact with others if you are feeling unwell to prevent the spread of germs.
Consider wearing a mask: In crowded indoor settings, wearing a mask can definitely help reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the flu.
Boost your immune system: Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly to strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
Understanding the Flu’s Impact:
The resurgence of flu cases highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance against infectious diseases. While COVID-19 has dominated headlines in recent years, influenza remains a meaningful public health threat, particularly during the winter months.
The flu can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and even death.
By taking preventive measures and staying informed about flu activity in your community, you can help protect yourself and others from this possibly perilous illness.
Time.news Interview: Flu Resurgence Dominates California – experts Weigh In
Time.news Editor: Welcome back to Time.news. Today we’re discussing the alarming resurgence of influenza in California, which has surpassed COVID-19 deaths for the first time as the pandemic began. To help us understand this concerning trend, we’re joined by Dr. [Future Expert’s Name], a promising young epidemiologist with a keen focus on infectious diseases.Dr. [Future Expert’s Name], thanks for joining us.
Dr. [Future Expert’s Name]: It’s my pleasure to be here.
Time.news editor: Dr.Swartzberg, a renowned expert in public health, has called this potentially the worst influenza season in the 21st century. What’s driving this surge,and how does it compare to previous years?
Dr. [Future Expert’s Name]: Several factors are at play here. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, stringent measures like social distancing and mask-wearing significantly suppressed influenza transmission. However, as those restrictions eased and people resumed their usual activities, we saw a natural rebound of seasonal influenza. This year, we’re seeing a more pronounced surge than in recent winters, likely due to a combination of factors including a waning immunity from previous seasons and a decrease in flu vaccination rates, particularly among children.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned waning immunity and lower vaccination rates.Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. [Future Expert’s Name]: During the pandemic, people were less exposed to circulating influenza viruses, which led to a decline in population immunity. Additionally, there was a drop in flu vaccinations, possibly due to pandemic-related factors, including vaccine hesitancy and disruptions to healthcare services. This reduced immunity combined with lower vaccination coverage makes individuals more susceptible to infection and severe illness.
Time.news Editor: What are the most concerning aspects of this flu surge for public health?
Dr. [Future Expert’s Name]: The potential for widespread illness and strain on healthcare systems is a major concern. Influenza can led to serious complications, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions. A ample surge in cases could overwhelm hospitals and healthcare resources.
Time.news Editor: what steps can individuals take to protect themselves and their loved ones from influenza?
Dr. [Future Expert’s Name]: The best protection is still vaccination. It’s not too late to get vaccinated. Other crucial measures include practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick to prevent the spread of germs.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue, dr. [Future Expert’s Name]. Your insights are invaluable.