Flu activity levels remain low across the state, no outbreaks in Volusia and Flagler

This time last year, flu activity trends were increasing. This year, less counties are reporting mild activity.

By Jarleene Almenas
| 3:40 p.m. October 26, 2020

A comparison between 2019 and 2020 influenza activity in the state as of week 42. Courtesy of DOH

Health

With new COVID-19 cases continuing to be reported in Volusia and Flagler, both county departments of health are still urging people to get vaccinated against the flu.

Though the Florida Department of Health reports that flu seasons vary in timing, severity and duration, so far, flu activity levels remain at low levels across the state. Additionally, there have been zero outbreaks to date in Volusia and Flagler counties, according to data tracked by DOH in a weekly report.

As of week 42 reporting period, which started on Oct. 11 and ran through Oct. 17, the percent of influenza-positive laboratory results remained low, as did the percent of emergency department and urgent care center visits that had discharge diagnoses that included influenza, according to the report.

The influenza and influenza-like illness activity trend is stable for 2020, as compared to weeks 42 in 2019 and 2018 where DOH reported the activity trends were increasing. The 202 report additionally explains that the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting people seeking health care, a trend that has continued since March.

"The flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses, but until there is a steady vaccine supply against COVID-19, the way to help prevent these two viruses from circulating at the same time is to get your flu vaccine now," a DOH press release stated.