Background: As discussed previously, influenza (flu) is a common respiratory disease that causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide (see pearl from October 1. 2014). We are now in the midst of the current flu season.
Current Update: This year’s vaccine was only a partial match (<50%) for the current influenza A (H3N2) circulating virus, so there is a significant potential for a “bad” flu season with widespread disease and severe illness. Currently, influenza is now widespread throughout the US, with some states reporting more activity than others. The CDC has a weekly surveillance map that highlights current disease spread.
Bottom Line:
Remember that influenza annually causes between 250,000 and 500,000 deaths worldwide.
Your emergency department will likely see many individuals with influenza this year, even if the patient received the vaccination.
Know your emergency department protocols and policies for cohorting influenza patients and addressing droplet isolation precautions.
