Unprecedented flu spike hitting Minnesota, data shows
Influenza cases and hospitalizations have spiked to unprecedented levels in Minnesota this month, according to the latest data from the Minnesota Department of Health.
The number of influenza hospitalizations recorded during the week ending Jan. 4 is the highest seen since MDH began its current tracking method during the 2019-2020 season.
In the Twin Cities metro, 470 patients were hospitalized with the flu in the latest week of data.
According to the data, influenza A cases have skyrocketed after a late-December surge in school outbreaks.
Outbreaks in long-term care facilities are also driving the spread, with eight new outbreaks of flu or RSV reported at facilities recently.
Minnesota has recorded 23 deaths associated with influenza so far this season, with the median age at 82-years-old.
No pediatric flu deaths have been reported.
"Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself from flu," MDH shares. "Cover your cough and sneezes, wash your hands, stay home when sick, clean frequently touched surfaces, and wear a mask to prevent the spread of flu."
Vehicles form a line at the emergency entrance outside Children's Minnesota in downtown St. Paul on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2023. Photo by Christine Schuster | Bring Me The News.
