US Flu Season 2021-2022: 82,000 to 170,000 Hospitalizations, 5,000 to 14,000 Deaths
The 2021-2022 flu season in the United States resulted in a significant impact, with an estimated 82,000 to 170,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 to 14,000 deaths. This season's figures are within the average annual range of influenza in the US. On average, the flu causes between 9 and 41 million illnesses, 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations, and 12,000 to 52,000 deaths annually in the US. Globally, it results in an estimated 290,000 to 650,000 deaths each year. The flu season typically peaks from October to May, but cases can occur anytime. Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Less commonly, diarrhea or vomiting may also occur. Epidemiologists monitor current disease numbers annually. During the 2021-2022 season, there were an estimated 8 to 13 million flu illnesses in the US. Influenza virus mutates yearly and sometimes within the same season, making vaccination crucial for prevention. Other preventive measures include regular handwashing and maintaining distance from sick individuals. The flu remains a significant health concern, with the potential for severe outcomes. As the virus mutates, vaccination and preventive measures are vital for protecting public health. Epidemiologists continue to monitor the disease's spread and impact.
