Who’s Most at Risk as Flu Season Ramps Up?
As temperatures plummet, the familiar chill of flu season descends upon the U.S. While many recover within a week, for some, this common virus can pack a dangerous punch. Each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports up to 52,000 deaths and 710,000 hospitalizations due to influenza in the United States alone.
A new CDC analysis, examining hospitalized flu patients over the past 13 seasons (2010-2023), has revealed a number of factors that can significantly increase the risk of severe illness.
Age: A Vulnerable Population
Young children and older adults, both with weaker immune systems, often face higher rates of hospitalization. “Older adults are more susceptible to H3N2, a type of influenza A virus,” the CDC warns.
Underlying Health Conditions: Amplifying the Danger
Several health conditions can make the flu particularly dangerous. Neurological disorders like epilepsy and cerebral palsy can make clearing fluids from the respiratory tract difficult, potentially leading to pneumonia. Individuals with asthma or lung diseases may experience severe flare-ups or complications like pneumonia, while COPD patients with compromised immune systems struggle clearance of the virus, further aggravating their breathing difficulties.
Pregnancy: A Time of Increased Vulnerability
Pregnant women, especially, are at heightened risk. Studies highlight how pregnancy hormones suppress the immune system, increasing the likelihood of severe flu and raising concerns about potential risks to the developing fetus.
Metabolic Conditions: Adding to the Challenge
Obesity and chronic metabolic diseases like diabetes can further complicate flu recovery. “Being obese can make it difficult to breathe deeply, which is needed to clear lung infections,” explains Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Diabetes, Dr. Susan Splett, professor of endocrinology at Duke University School of Medicine, notes, can also make blood sugar control more challenging during a flu infection. "High blood sugar can affect the activity of white blood cells, thus worsening the condition and extending the recovery period," she says.
Cardiovascular Disease: A Higher Risk Factor
Msk Heart disease adds another layer of concern. Nearly half of adults hospitalized with the flu have some form of heart disease. Dr. Sadia Khan, a cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine, explains, "People with cardiovascular disease tend to be older adults with weakened immune systems. Research shows that the flu increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes in patients with heart disease.”
High Blood Pressure: Putting Extra Strain
High blood pressure, impacting a large segment of the population, also increases vulnerability. “In the last two flu seasons, one in four people hospitalized with the flu between the ages of 18 and 49 had high blood pressure, and about three-quarters of those hospitalized had high blood pressure older than 65 years,” the CDC found.
For those with high blood pressure, the flu can overtax the heart, Dr. Splett warns.
Vaccination: Your Best Defense
The good news is that the flu vaccine offers significant protection. A recent study demonstrated a 34.5% reduction in hospitalization rates among vaccinated individuals in five South American countries. Yet, even with vaccination, it’s vital to remain vigilant for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or chest pain and to seek prompt medical attention if needed.
If you experience flu symptoms persisting beyond a week, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
This flu season, stay informed, take precautions, and consult with your doctor to ensure you and your loved ones stay healthy.
2024-11-29 12:06:00
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## who’s Most At Risk as Flu Season Ramps Up?
**World-Today-News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Infectious Disease Specialist**
As temperatures drop and leaves turn vibrant hues, a less welcome visitor arrives – flu season. While for many, the flu is a week of sniffles and aches, for others, it poses a serious threat. A recent CDC analysis examining hospitalizations over thirteen flu seasons highlights key factors that escalate the risk of severe illness. We spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading infectious disease specialist, to unpack these findings and offer guidance for staying safe this flu season.
**World-Today-News:** Dr. Carter, the CDC analysis points to certain groups being especially vulnerable to severe flu complications. Could you elaborate on those?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. the CDC’s findings reaffirm what we see in clinical practice. Age is a notable factor, with young children and older adults facing a higher risk of hospitalization. Children under five have developing immune systems, while older adults often have weakened immune responses, making them more susceptible to infections.
**World-Today-News:** The analysis mentioned a specific virus type, H3N2, particularly affecting older adults.Can you explain why?
**Dr. Carter:** H3N2 tends to cause more severe illness in general, and older adults often have less robust immune system memory against fluctuating strains of H3N2. This makes them more vulnerable to serious complications like pneumonia.
**World-Today-News:** Beyond age, what other factors increase flu risk?
**Dr. Carter:** Several underlying health conditions can substantially increase the risk of severe flu. People with chronic lung diseases like asthma or COPD,heart disease,diabetes,and neurological disorders are particularly vulnerable.These conditions can weaken the body’s ability to fight infection or exacerbate existing health problems during a flu infection.
**World-Today-News:** What preventive measures are crucial for these high-risk groups?
**Dr. Carter:** vaccination is the cornerstone of flu prevention. The flu shot is safe and effective and significantly reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death. For high-risk groups, it’s especially vital to get vaccinated as early as possible.
**World-Today-News:** Beyond vaccination, what other steps can people take to protect themselves?
**Dr. Carter:** Simple, everyday actions can make a big difference: frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. If you’re feeling ill, stay home to prevent spreading the virus.
**world-Today-News:** what message would you like to convey to our readers about flu season?
**Dr. Carter:** The flu is a serious illness that can have significant consequences. But by taking preventive measures like vaccination and practicing good hygiene, we can all contribute to a safer and healthier flu season. Don’t underestimate the flu; be informed, be prepared, and protect yourself and those around you.
**World-Today-News:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your valuable insights. We appreciate your time and expertise.
