MMWR: Flu Hospitalization Rates in the U.S are Highest Among Adults 65 and Older and Children Four and Younger

New data released in a recent MMRW states that flu hospitalization rates in the U.S. are highest among adults 65 and older and children under 4, with the 2022-2023 season showing a return to pre-pandemic levels after exceptionally low rates during the 2020-2021 season. Hospitalization data indicate a concerning decline in antiviral treatment among hospitalized patients, especially in children and adolescents, dropping from 91.7% in 2017-2018 to 79.1% in 2022-2023.

Vulnerable populations face severe illness risks, necessitating enhanced public health initiatives. Public health officials should promote vaccination and antiviral treatment to mitigate disparities and improve outcomes, emphasizing the importance of ongoing influenza surveillance to guide effective interventions. Read more from the CDC here.