The 2022-2023 influenza season in the United States was a serious one, with high levels of activity and significant impacts on public health. As of March 8, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that there were at least 26 million cases of influenza, 290,000 hospitalizations, and 18,000 deaths in the United States.
The season began early, with widespread influenza activity reported in October 2022. The most common influenza viruses were A(H3N2) and B/Victoria. A(H3N2) viruses were particularly severe this season, causing more hospitalizations and deaths than in previous years.
The impact of the season was felt throughout the United States, but some cities were hit harder than others. In New York City, for example, there were nearly 2.5 million cases of influenza, 30,000 hospitalizations, and 1,500 deaths. In Los Angeles, there were over 1 million cases of influenza, 15,000 hospitalizations, and 1,000 deaths.
The high levels of influenza activity this season had a significant impact on public health. Schools and businesses were closed, and many people missed work or school due to illness. The season also put a strain on health care systems, as hospitals and clinics were overwhelmed with patients.
Prevention and Treatment
The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine is effective in preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death. People of all ages should get vaccinated against the flu, but it is especially important for people who are at high risk for complications, such as young children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.
There are also antiviral medications that can be used to treat the flu. Antivirals are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. They can help to shorten the length of illness and reduce the risk of serious complications.
How the Flu Affects Your Body and Why You Feel So Miserable The flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza contagions
It can beget a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, muscle stings, headache, and fatigue. The flu contagion enters the body through the nose or mouth and expedition to the lungs. formerly in the lungs, the contagion infects cells and begins to replicate. This can beget inflammation and damage to the lungs, which can lead to symptoms analogous as cough, briefness of breath, and casket pain.
The body's vulnerable system responds to the flu contagion by producing white blood cells called T cells. These cells help to kill the contagion- infected cells. still, the vulnerable response can also beget some of the symptoms of the flu. For illustration, the product of cytokines, which are flagging molecules that help to coordinate the vulnerable response, can beget fever, headache, and muscle stings.
The buildup of mucus in the lungs can also beget coughing. In some cases, the flu can lead to serious complications, analogous as pneumonia, bronchitis, and bacterial infections. These complications are more likely to do in people who are at high trouble, analogous as aged grown- ups, immature children, and people with underpinning health conditions.
The swish way to help the flu is to get vaccinated each time. The flu vaccine helps to cover against the most common strains of the flu contagion. still, there are goods you can do to relieve your symptoms and get better hastily, If you do get the flu. These include Getting cornucopia of rest Drinking fluids Taking untoward specifics to relieve fever, cough, and pain Using a humidifier or taking a hot shower to help loosen mucus Seeing a croaker if your symptoms are severe or do not meliorate after a numerous days While the flu can be a miserable illness, it's important to flash back that utmost people recover without any lasting problems.
By taking way to help the flu and to get better if you do get sick, you can help to cover your health. also are some fresh tips to help you stay healthy during the flu season Wash your hands constantly with cleaner and water. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home from work or academe if you are sick. By following these tips, you can help to help the spread of the flu and stay healthy this season.
Conclusion
The 2022-2023 influenza season was a serious one, with high levels of activity and significant impacts on public health. Getting vaccinated against the flu is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious illness.