How Many People Died of Influenza in 2018-2019? Unveiling the Toll
An estimated 34,200 people died from influenza in the United States during the 2018-2019 season, a significant decrease compared to the previous year, but still a sobering reminder of the virus’s potential severity. Understanding the factors behind this figure is crucial for future public health preparedness.
Understanding the 2018-2019 Influenza Season
The 2018-2019 influenza season presented a unique set of challenges and characteristics. While the overall death toll was lower than the unusually severe 2017-2018 season, it still highlighted the significant impact influenza can have on public health. This season provides valuable lessons for understanding influenza trends and improving future responses.
Key Characteristics of the 2018-2019 Season
The 2018-2019 influenza season had several distinguishing features:
- Predominant Strain: Influenza A(H1N1) was the dominant strain circulating, although Influenza A(H3N2) and Influenza B viruses also contributed to illness.
- Severity: While the mortality rate was lower than the previous season, hospitalizations and outpatient visits for influenza-like illness remained significant.
- Vaccine Effectiveness: Vaccine effectiveness varied depending on the circulating strain and the individual’s age and health status.
- Timing: The season began in late fall and peaked in February, lasting for several months.
Factors Influencing the Death Toll
Several factors contributed to the estimated 34,200 deaths from influenza in 2018-2019. These include:
- Vaccination Rates: Lower vaccination rates within vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, contributed to increased risk.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes are more susceptible to severe influenza complications.
- Access to Healthcare: Barriers to healthcare access, including lack of insurance or geographic limitations, can delay treatment and worsen outcomes.
- Viral Strain Virulence: The specific characteristics of the circulating influenza strains, including their transmissibility and ability to cause severe illness, played a role.
- Age Distribution: The elderly population is inherently more vulnerable to influenza complications.
Comparing 2018-2019 to Previous Seasons
Understanding the 2018-2019 season requires comparing it to other recent influenza seasons. The 2017-2018 season, for example, was exceptionally severe, with an estimated 61,000 deaths. The 2019-2020 season, although impacted by the emerging COVID-19 pandemic towards its end, initially showed typical influenza activity. These comparisons help establish a baseline for understanding influenza’s typical impact and identifying potential anomalies.
| Season | Estimated Deaths | Predominant Strain(s) | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017-2018 | ~61,000 | A(H3N2) | High |
| 2018-2019 | ~34,200 | A(H1N1) | Moderate |
| 2019-2020 | ~22,000 | B, A(H1N1) | Low-Moderate |
The Importance of Vaccination
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. Getting vaccinated each year significantly reduces the risk of contracting influenza, experiencing severe illness, and requiring hospitalization or dying. Public health campaigns consistently emphasize the importance of annual influenza vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly does “influenza-related deaths” mean?
“Influenza-related deaths” often refer to deaths where influenza was a contributing factor, not necessarily the sole cause of death. For example, someone with heart disease might succumb to complications after contracting influenza, and their death certificate could list both influenza and heart disease as contributing causes.
How do public health agencies estimate the number of influenza deaths?
Public health agencies like the CDC use sophisticated statistical models to estimate influenza deaths. These models analyze data on reported cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, accounting for the fact that not all influenza cases are diagnosed or reported. These models also consider underlying mortality rates for other diseases, making adjustments to estimate excess deaths attributed to influenza.
Are influenza deaths accurately recorded in official statistics?
No, influenza deaths are likely underreported in official statistics. Many people who die from influenza complications are not tested for the virus, and their death certificates may list pneumonia or other respiratory illnesses as the primary cause of death.
Why does the number of influenza deaths vary so much from year to year?
The number of influenza deaths varies significantly due to several factors, including the predominant circulating strains, the effectiveness of the influenza vaccine, the age and health status of the population, and access to healthcare. A season dominated by a particularly virulent strain, or one with low vaccine effectiveness, can result in a higher death toll.
Who is most at risk of dying from influenza?
The elderly (65 years and older), young children (especially those under 5 years), pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and weakened immune systems) are at the highest risk of dying from influenza.
How effective is the influenza vaccine?
The effectiveness of the influenza vaccine varies from year to year depending on how well the vaccine strains match the circulating influenza viruses. When the match is good, the vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of contracting influenza and experiencing severe illness. Even when the match is not perfect, the vaccine can still offer some protection against complications.
Besides vaccination, what other steps can people take to protect themselves from influenza?
Other preventative measures include frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when you are sick.
What are the symptoms of influenza?
Common symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, and runny or stuffy nose. Some people, especially children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
When should someone seek medical care for influenza?
People should seek medical care for influenza if they experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent dizziness, confusion, severe dehydration, or worsening of underlying medical conditions. Infants and young children with any of these symptoms should also be seen by a doctor immediately.
Is there a treatment for influenza?
Yes, antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can be used to treat influenza. These medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Does the influenza vaccine guarantee that I won’t get the flu?
No, the influenza vaccine does not guarantee complete protection. However, it significantly reduces your risk of contracting influenza and experiencing severe illness, even if you do get the virus.
What role did public health initiatives play in mitigating the impact of influenza in 2018-2019?
Public health initiatives, including vaccination campaigns, surveillance efforts, and public education programs, played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of influenza in 2018-2019. These initiatives helped to promote vaccination, monitor the spread of the virus, and provide guidance on prevention and treatment. Understanding how many people died of influenza in 2018-2019 underscores the ongoing need for robust public health infrastructure and continued investment in influenza prevention and control.