Hospitals in the Greater Baltimore area are facing high patient volumes due to a tough flu season, with emergency rooms particularly crowded. This reflects a nationwide trend of elevated flu activity.
Early and Severe Surges:
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Dr. Nishad Rahman, Medical Director of Emergency Medicine at LifeBridge Health’s Northwest Hospital, says this season is earlier and more aggressive than usual.
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First surge: post-Thanksgiving.
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Second surge: post-Christmas, currently ongoing.
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Upcoming surge: anticipated following New Year’s celebrations.
Other Respiratory Viruses:
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Alongside flu, hospitals are seeing cases of RSV and COVID, though the majority are flu-related.
Impact in Maryland:
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Flu activity is listed as high by the Maryland Department of Health.
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1,261 hospitalizations and 7 deaths have occurred so far this season.
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Maryland is among over two dozen states experiencing high flu levels.
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CDC reports at least 7.5 million flu cases nationwide this season, with 81,000 hospitalizations.
Flu Strain Concerns:
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This season features the H3N2 strain, which is known for more severe illness and higher infection rates.
Vaccination is Key:
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Only 42% of adults and children have received the flu vaccine so far.
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Dr. Rahman emphasizes: getting vaccinated reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization, even if you still contract the flu.
Bottom line: The flu season is far from over, and high vaccination coverage is critical to reducing hospitalizations and protecting vulnerable populations.
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