How Many Americans Died from the Flu in 2019: Shocking Numbers Revealed!
Flu, also known as influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Every year, millions of people in the United States get the flu, and tens of thousands of them die from it. In 2019, the country experienced a severe flu season that claimed the lives of many Americans. Here is a look at the shocking numbers that were revealed during that time.
The Numbers
In 2019, the flu season started early, and it was one of the most severe seasons in recent history. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between October 1, 2018, and May 4, 2019, there were more than 42.9 million flu illnesses, 647,000 hospitalizations, and 61,200 deaths caused by the flu. These numbers are alarming and highlight the importance of taking the necessary precautions to prevent the flu.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
While anyone can get the flu, some people are more vulnerable than others. The CDC reports that the following groups are at high risk of serious flu-related complications:
- Children younger than 5 years old, but especially children younger than 2 years old
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- Pregnant women
- People with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease
If you are in any of these groups, it is crucial to take extra precautions to avoid getting the flu. This may include getting a flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
How to Prevent the Flu
Preventing the flu is the best way to avoid getting sick and spreading the virus to others. Here are some of the best ways to prevent the flu:
- Get a flu shot – the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home if you are sick
Symptoms of the Flu
The flu can cause a range of symptoms and can vary in severity. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to stay home and rest. You should also seek medical care if you have a high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent vomiting.
Treatment for the Flu
If you are diagnosed with the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to help shorten the duration of your illness and reduce the severity of your symptoms. Additionally, you can take steps to manage your symptoms at home, such as resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications for fever and pain relief.
The Bottom Line
The flu is a serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death. It is important to take steps to prevent the flu and to seek medical care if you experience symptoms. By doing so, you can protect yourself and those around you from the spread of the virus.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/preliminary-in-season-estimates.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm
Most Common Questions and Answers:
- Q: How many Americans died from the flu in 2019?
- A: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 61,200 deaths caused by the flu in the United States between October 1, 2018, and May 4, 2019.
- Q: Who is at high risk of serious flu-related complications?
- A: The CDC reports that children younger than 5 years old, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease are at high risk of serious flu-related complications.
- Q: What are the symptoms of the flu?
- A: The flu can cause a range of symptoms, including fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and vomiting and diarrhea in some cases.
- Q: How can I prevent the flu?
- A: Ways to prevent the flu include getting a flu shot, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you are sick.
- Q: How is the flu treated?
- A: If you are diagnosed with the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to help shorten the duration of your illness and reduce the severity of your symptoms. Additionally, you can manage your symptoms at home by resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications for fever and pain relief.