Cautious Optimism As Latest Flu Rates Remain Low

Every few weeks, we periodically check in on the progression of the flu season, reporting on states that are either a rising threat for illness or ones that could be looming. With infection control such an important factor to reopening facilities and keeping schools open — and learning the best practices for doing so — it's also important to keep tabs on influenza in addition to COVID-19 concerns. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which provides updating information with their “Weekly U.S. Influenza Report” rates states on 6-tier scale: Very High, High, Moderate, Low, Minimal, and Insufficient data. 

According to findings from Week 46 (ending Nov. 20) just one jurisdiction, New Mexico, classified as "Very High" or "High" — compared to the zero jurisdictions reported from our early November coverage. Two jurisdictions (the same number as our last update)  fall under the "Moderate" category: Georgia and Rhode Island.

Speaking of low, the remaining 51 jurisdictions fall under the categories of "Low", "Minimal", or "Insufficient Data" indicating positive momentum going into the holiday season. Yet with the uptick in larger indoor gatherings and travel now in full swing and for the next 40 days or so, facility cleaning managers should prepare for enhanced infection control efforts — and perhaps higher case rates as data from Thanksgiving weekend is finalized. Click here to learn more about how best practices for cleaning and infection control and help prevent this possibility. 

Be sure to check back in for more CDC flu activity updates on a regular basis.