LOS ANGELES: There have been at least 2.6 million illnesses, 26,000 hospitalisations, and 1,600 deaths from flu so far this season in the United States, according to the latest estimates of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Seasonal influenza activity continues to increase in most parts of the country, with the southeast and south-central areas of the country reporting the highest levels of activity, according to the CDC weekly review, said Xinhua.

The number of weekly flu hospital admissions continued to increase.

Four influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported during the week ending Dec 2, bringing the 2023-2024 season total to 12 pediatric deaths, according to CDC.

CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. – Bernama