INDIANAPOLIS—The number of flu-related deaths has doubled in the space of a week, according to the Indiana Department of Health.
Officials say 24 people have died from the flu so far this season. There are 13 more deaths than the previous week.
Of the deaths this season, 1 was a person between the ages of 25 and 49, 5 people were between the ages of 50 and 64, and 18 people were at least 65 years old.
While there have been no pediatric flu deaths in Indiana, there have been 21 pediatric deaths nationwide.
Nationwide, there have been 25,906 people admitted to the hospital with influenza in the last week.
So far this season, the CDC estimates there have been at least 13 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations and 7,300 deaths from the flu. The hospitalization rate is higher than the rate observed at the same time during all previous seasons from 2010-2011.
The CDC says the highest rate of hospitalization is among adults 65 and older, followed by children ages 0 to 4.
As of Friday, most states have high or very high levels of influenza-like illness activity.
The CDC says that most influenza viruses tested are similar to those included in this season’s vaccine. That is why they encourage everyone over 6 months to get vaccinated.
The CDC says that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure to this virus. However, as a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it away.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash your hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
