Flu activity has surged in the Chicago area, with local hospitals reporting a significant increase in cases. This year’s flu season is proving to be particularly harsh, as families across the region, like that of Oak Lawn resident Tom Tassoni, grapple with illness. Tassoni’s family, including his 4-year-old daughter, fell ill just before Christmas, illustrating the widespread impact of the flu this season.
According to health officials, flu activity officially reached high levels in suburban Cook County, with emergency department visits and hospitalizations for flu-related illnesses peaking during the week ending December 20, 2023. Dr. Kiran Joshi, chief operating officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health, reported that emergency room visits related to the flu nearly tripled during this period.
Flu Activity Spikes Nationwide
The concerning trend extends beyond the Chicago area. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that flu activity is classified as high or very high in over half of U.S. states. In Illinois, the state health department reported moderate flu activity for the same week. Hospitals are witnessing a higher number of patients earlier in the season compared to last year, raising questions about the potential severity of this flu season.
“Last year, we also experienced a severe flu season in Cook County,” Dr. Joshi noted. “While back-to-back severe seasons are uncommon, they can happen, particularly when vaccination rates are low.” Low vaccination rates may be a contributing factor, as the current flu vaccine has not effectively matched the circulating variant, known as subclade K.
In fact, Dr. Jonathan Pinsky, infection control medical director at Endeavor Health Edward Hospital, reported that their emergency departments treated approximately 900 flu patients last week. This represents an increase from just 1.5% of emergency visits to around 11%, indicating a stark rise in flu cases.
Impact on Young Children and Hospital Resources
The flu can be particularly severe for young children. Emergency department visits for flu cases among children in suburban Cook County have doubled compared to last year. Dr. Larry Kociolek, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Lurie Children’s Hospital, reported a significant increase in diagnoses, with about 350 children diagnosed with the flu last week, up from 90 two weeks prior.
Children under the age of five are especially at risk for complications. As of the latest reports, Lurie had 33 patients hospitalized with the flu or RSV, emphasizing the need for vigilance among parents and guardians.
“I think people should be concerned,” Dr. Kociolek stated. “Influenza is never something to scoff at. While most people won’t face severe illness, the risk of hospitalization and complications is significant.”
Health officials recommend that individuals practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, and that those who are symptomatic remain at home to prevent spreading the virus.
It is also not too late to receive the flu vaccine, despite its imperfect match against subclade K. Experts assert that even a less effective vaccine may reduce the severity of illness and decrease the likelihood of hospitalization. A recent study from the United Kingdom indicated that the vaccine could still offer some protection against severe outcomes.
In Chicago, around 22% of residents had received their flu vaccinations as of December 13, 2023. The Cook County Department of Public Health continues to provide free flu vaccines through vaccination clinics held on Saturdays at various locations, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
As families like Tassoni’s navigate the challenges of this flu season, the message from health officials remains clear: vigilance, vaccination, and awareness are essential in mitigating the impact of this growing public health concern.
