Six things to know:
1. Flu activity is now low across the U.S., although levels of influenza-like illness are still elevated, potentially due to COVID-19.
2. The CDC confirmed four additional pediatric flu deaths in the week ending April 4. This brings the total to 166 for the 2019-20 flu season.
3. The national flu and pneumonia mortality rate rose to 10 percent, which sits above the epidemic threshold of 7.2 percent. The CDC noted this increase is driven by a jump in pneumonia deaths, which may also be related to COVID-19.
4. Nineteen states experienced high flu-like illness activity, four states experienced moderate activity and 12 states had low activity. Fifteen reported minimal activity.
5. The overall flu hospitalization rate increased slightly to 68.2 per 100,000 population for the week ending April 4.
6. Flu activity was widespread in just 11 states, down from 22 states a week prior.
More articles on public health:
Weather temperature not linked to coronavirus spread, study finds
White House eases more provider regulations, considers cloth gowns: 4 COVID-19 updates
How COVID-19 death estimates stack up to past pandemics, leading causes of death
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.