In 2017, there were multiple reports of a deadly flu outbreak. Now, with about 12,000 people hospitalized and 37 deaths of children so far, this season is known to be the worst flu outbreak of the decade. The aspect that is so deadly about this flu is that there is more of the Influenza A-H3N2 strand, which makes it more likely for senior citizens and children to become infected. However, though this season is reported to be worse, it has a lot of things in common with the 2014-2015 season, when doctors and researchers were more focused on Ebola spreading to America.

The flu has been reported this year in 49 states, the only one without any reports being Hawaii. California, on the other hand, has been called a “war zone,” as it has been hit with the flu the hardest. Within the state, tents have been pitched outside of hospitals by nurses and doctors. These are to help emergency patients, as the emergency rooms have been filled with flu patients; ten deaths have been reported.

    To be prepared for the flu, or when treating the flu, these precautions should be taken:

• Don’t take any regular antibiotics, as they have been reported not to work.
• As realistically possible, try to limit contact with people, except for medical help.
• Avoid people spreading germs through coughing and sneezing.
• Make sure not to touch doorknobs, tables, and blankets etc. without washing your hands afterward.

The average flu season is from late fall to early spring, but it has been predicted that this season will last for a few more months, as it hasn’t reached its peak. It has steadily increased in over 32 states; the state leading in increases being New York. Even though there have been harsher flu cases in the past, this one has been very deadly.

Stay healthy!

Photo Credit: Los Angeles Daily News