Influenza activity in the United States is increasing and is expected to continue at elevated levels for several more weeks. Influenza A (H1N1) viruses have been most common this season; influenza A(H3N2) in the southeastern part of the country as well as influenza B viruses are also circulating. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all people 6 months and older and is the best way to prevent influenza and its potentially serious complications. Available evidence consistently indicates that antiviral treatment initiated as early as possible can be a useful second line of defense to treat influenza illness when indicated and can reduce severe outcomes of influenza.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Clinical Outreach and Communication Activity will be hosting a call Tuesday, January 29th from 1-2pm CST for clinicians on the 2018-2019 influenza activity as well as an overview of the CDC’s recommendations for clinicians, including a new antiviral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration in October 2018.
To access the webinar, please visit the following link. Continuing education hours are available.
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD DOH) provides a weekly summary on current influenza activity across the state. To view the most recent South Dakota weekly summary as well as other influenza information, view the SD DOH Flu Surveillance website here. For a national look at influenza activity, click here.
