Influenza cases in Maine have reached a peak with more than 2,000 confirmed cases in just one week, the highest number so far in the 2024-25 flu season. The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported a significant increase in cases, with 145 hospitalizations last week alone and a total of 711 hospitalizations for the season. Most of the state is experiencing “moderate” to “high” levels of influenza activity, with some counties categorized as “very high.”
The majority of cases are due to the Influenza A strain, and there have been no recorded human cases of bird flu in Maine this year. However, cases have been reported in wild animals, prompting state officials to advise caution for those with domesticated birds.
While federal data is slightly behind state data, recent U.S. CDC reports show that Maine and much of the nation are experiencing “very high” levels of flu activity. The state is also reporting high levels of COVID-19 in wastewater, although cases have decreased from late January. Other respiratory illnesses such as RSV and norovirus are also circulating at high levels this winter.
Public health officials recommend getting a flu shot to prevent further spread of the virus, as well as practicing good hygiene habits such as hand washing and staying home when sick. It is not too late to get vaccinated, as many places offer flu shots including pharmacies and health care providers. Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue.
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