Week 20 influenza & influenza-like illness (ILI) activity summary:

Week 20 marks the end of the production of the weekly influenza report. The Florida Department of Health will continue to distribute influenza reports in an abbreviated format during the summer months. These reports will be distributed on a weekly basis while elevated influenza activity persists and will move to a biweekly basis when flu activity begins to trend down. Respiratory syncytial virus surveillance information will continue to be included in these reports

Surveillance for influenza will continue during the summer months with a focus on identification of outbreaks and unusually severe presentations of influenza or ILI.

During week 20, influenza and ILI activity increased across the state.

Influenza seasons vary in timing, severity, and duration. It is not possible to predict what the 2021–22 influenza season will be like in Florida.

During the last four weeks, the percent of influenza-positive laboratory results remained stable. Consistent with the national trend, influenza A(H3) is the most common subtype identified at the Bureau of Public Health Laboratories so far this season.

No new influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported in week 20.

Get your flu shot now! Annual vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from influenza and its potentially severe complications. Flu shots take up to two weeks to become fully effective, so it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible to reduce your chances of getting the flu this season. The flu vaccine may be given at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine (www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pandemic-guidance/index.html).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends antiviral treatment be initiated as soon as possible for people with confirmed or suspected influenza who are at higher risk for complications (children <2 years, adults ≥65 years, pregnant women, and people with underlying medical condition). Treatment should be administered within 48 hours of illness onset. For more information, contact your health care provider.

The Florida Department of Health will continue to make updates and provide clarification on the trends presented in this report as needed.