Flu measures show slight decline but peak remains unclear

Government data show small declines in some flu indicators, while hospitalizations and deaths remain elevated and a mostly new H3N2 variant differs from this season's vaccine.

U.S. flu activity showed small declines in some measures last week, but officials said it is not clear the severe season has peaked. Reports noted fewer medical office visits for flu-like illness and a slight drop in the number of states reporting high flu activity. At the same time, hospitalizations and deaths increased, and the A H3N2 virus has been the most frequently reported type this season. More than 91% of analyzed H3N2 cases were the subclade K variant, which differs from the strain used in this season's vaccines. Key points: - Data showed small declines in outpatient visits for flu-like illness and a slight drop in the number of states reporting high activity. - Flu hospitalizations and deaths rose last week, even as some other indicators declined. - A H3N2 viruses predominate this season; over 91% of analyzed H3N2 infections were the subclade K variant that differs from the vaccine strain. - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 15 million illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations and 7,400 deaths so far this season. Summary: Some measures suggest the outbreak may have eased slightly, but serious outcomes remain elevated and experts say further illness is possible. Undetermined at this time.