As the cold winter weather takes hold, the US is experiencing surges of Covid and a new ‘super flu.’
The latest CDC data shows positive influenza tests are up 13 percent compared to the week before, and the amount of people hospitalized with the illness is up nearly 50 percent.
Positive tests are also up by nearly 50 percent compared to this time last year, while hospitalizations have more than doubled.
The data, which goes up to December 6, also shows ‘very high’ flu transmission in New York City, New Jersey, Colorado and Louisiana.
Experts believe the surges are largely driven by the dangerous new flu strain H3N2 subclade K, which is on the rise in more than three dozen states. This year’s dominant flu strain is brand new to people’s immune systems, making them highly vulnerable and at an increased risk of severe, hospitalizing illness.
Several schools across the country have closed for days at a time after hundreds of students came down with flu-like symptoms, and a growing number of hospitals have reintroduced mask policies for patients, visitors and doctors.
At the same time, Covid strain XFG, also known as Stratus, has become the virus’ dominant variant, causing a signature ‘razor blade’ sensation in patients’ throats.
And CDC trends data shows the spread of of both illnesses is likely to worsen in the coming weeks, with illnesses trending up in many states.
Below, the Daily Mail reveals the tell-tale symptoms of super flu and the newest Covid strain and how to tell which condition is making you sick.
I am running to CVS to get my 19th Booster to prevent this illness