Flu Cases Surge in Boston and Across Massachusetts Ahead of Holidays
Flu Activity Rises in Massachusetts Before Holiday Gatherings
Flu activity in Massachusetts has reached a "high" level for the first time this season, according to the state Department of Public Health, as residents begin holiday gatherings across the state.
The increase comes as families engage in last-minute shopping, gift wrapping, cooking, and efforts to protect vulnerable relatives, including grandparents and young children, during Christmas celebrations.
Significant Increase in Flu Cases in Boston
On Tuesday, the city of Boston reported a 114% increase in recent flu cases. City officials noted that this spike has occurred about a month earlier than when comparable flu levels were recorded in Boston last season.
The largest rise in cases in Boston is among children. Data show an 83% increase in flu cases among children under five years old and a 217% increase among those aged five to 17.
Planned Flu Vaccination Clinics and National Case Estimates
The Boston Public Health Commission plans to schedule free flu vaccination clinics in January. These clinics are intended to provide flu shots at no cost to the public.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there have been 4.6 million flu cases across the United States since the current flu season began. The agency also estimates that 1,900 patients have died from flu-related causes during this period.
Flu Symptoms and Impact on Holiday Plans
The current flu strain is described as highly contagious and is associated with symptoms such as fever, body aches, cough, fatigue, and vomiting. These illnesses have led some people to alter holiday travel plans and cancel reservations.
A mother in Walpole said her family was scheduled to fly, but her child woke up with a fever that worsened over the day. She reported that testing at a CVS pharmacy for COVID, flu, and RSV returned an immediate positive result for influenza A.
Another mother in Foxboro stated that her child has been in school and that managing illness has been challenging. She said she is concerned about infecting other family members and emphasized the importance of avoiding the spread of germs.
Guidance from Health Professionals on Prevention
Dr. Vandana Madhavan, Clinical Director of Pediatric Infectious Disease at Massachusetts General Hospital, said that wearing a mask in crowded spaces such as planes and trains can reduce the risk of contracting respiratory illnesses while traveling, even for people who are currently well.
Families dealing with flu infections during the school break are working to limit transmission within their households while attempting to maintain some holiday activities. One mother from Walpole said her family is washing their hands and wearing masks in an effort to prevent further spread.
Timing of Flu Vaccination for Ongoing Season
Doctors report that it is too late for a flu vaccination to provide protection specifically in time for Christmas. However, they state it is still an appropriate time to receive the flu vaccine for protection during the remainder of the flu season.
Health professionals also indicate that individuals and families planning a vacation in February should consider getting flu shots now as part of their preventive measures for upcoming travel.