by Arden Nguyen
Although fears of contracting coronavirus continue to plague the nation, experts say that the flu should be a larger cause for concern.
In what is being referred to as a “double-barrel flu season,” two of the four types of influenza (A, B, C, and D), have been more common than others this 2019-2020 season.
Initially, influenza B made up the majority of cases; this is considered an unusual occurrence that last appeared in the 1992-1993 flu season. However, in recent weeks, influenza A has taken the lead with a greater presence.
As children and the elderly are more susceptible to both strains, they are the age groups most affected during this season. So far, there have been approximately 14,000 deaths, 26 million cases, and 250,000 hospitalizations from the flu, which has been especially prevalent in 47 states. The season has not peaked yet, and could worsen still.
But it’s not too late to protect yourself if you haven’t already. According to the CDC, this year’s vaccines have proven to be effective and are still highly recommended, along with antiviral drugs.
