Influenza risk today is still moderate to high in the Commonwealth though beginning to drop, according to the Department of Public Health dashboard that tracks emergency room visits for flu, Covid-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and other respiratory viruses.
Moreover, the now-circulating influenza A virus is not well matched by the flu vaccine developed and administered last summer and fall, so significant infections are more likely after exposure even for immunized individuals.
Please remember that influenza is not just a cold. It can be a truly severe infection with high fevers and debility that goes on for days. Fortunately, the current vaccine reportedly does a fair job at reducing hospitalizations and deaths, which outcomes are most likely for older adults and children. Antiviral medications are available and helpful to mitigate the severity of the disease if taken promptly. Covid-19 infections now are low frequency.
What to Do?
During this close-to-peak influenza exposure period, I believe sensible precautions are appropriate. For example, this is not the week to dine in a small restaurant with crowded tables and poor airflow. Your risk of infection is quite high. Spending time in larger venues, such as shopping at Costco or going to Symphony Hall, are much safer. A mask might be prudent in any large venue. If the slight downward trend continues, by next week the flu risk level will likely be low enough for more normal activities to be safe.
Flu Shots Still Relevant
When this wave of influenza A fades, it will be followed by influenza type B picking up in the springtime. That is usually essentially as severe as influenza A. The same influenza immunization works against both. So if you have not yet gotten this year’s flu shot, it is still a better biological bet for you to go get it at your pharmacy.