CDC: Flu Rate Falling but Epidemic Still Claiming Kids’ Lives

February 20, 2015

Flu continues to be a widespread problem in 30 states, and the proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza is above the epidemic threshold.

Figures in the latest CDC report show that the outbreak has hit the youngest and the elderly especially hard. Just three weeks ago flu-related hospitalization for people aged 65 and older reached the highest mark since the CDC began tracking that information in 2005, and those numbers continue to increase.

The vaccine this year has not proven to be very effective. It was developed and manufactured before the virus mutated, and has prevented flu in only about 30 percent of the cases. Still, those who have received the vaccine may have fewer symptoms and milder cases of the illness.

The CDC recommends regular hand-washing with warm water and soap — wash thoroughly for a full minute — to reduce the chances of spreading the virus and getting the flu.

Photo: Getty

Vicki Clinebell majored in journalism at the University of Colorado and headed to an advertising agency before beginning a long career in broadcasting, spanning production and copywriting to Sales and Management for an ABC affiliate station.

Her decision to switch gears to pursue a career in writing fulfilled a lifelong ambition. She started as a blogger for a diverse group of businesses, and now writes for a number of digital publications for companies stationed in her hometown in the Rocky Mountains, and provides advertising copy and media buys for national and regional clients. She finds the research as intersting as the writing—she loves learning about subjects as diverse as construction scaffolding, child safety seats, and the newest trends in beauty and fashion.