Feb 25, 2021 - Health

"Twindemic" averted as flu reports plummet amid coronavirus crisis

Fadel Allassan

Illustration of needles, vials and flu virus — Illustration: Axios Visuals

Reports of the flu have "virtually disappeared" in the U.S. amid the coronavirus pandemic, the AP reports, during a season when the disease would otherwise be packing doctors' offices and hospitals.

The intrigue: The drop in flu illnesses is in part a byproduct of efforts intended to curb the spread of COVID-19 — like wearing masks, social distancing, and remote schooling, experts tell AP. The significant drop in travel, as well as a public push to encourage people to get the flu vaccine, also likely had an effect.

The bottom line: Nationally, Centers for Disease Control scientist Lynnette Bramme said it's likely the "lowest flu season we've had on record," according to a surveillance system that has been operating for 25 years.

"The numbers are astonishing considering flu has long been the nation’s biggest infectious disease threat," AP writes.
The flu typically results in 600,000 to 800,000 hospitalizations a year, and between 50,000 and 60,000 deaths.

The big picture: Flu activity has also been down in China, Europe, South Africa, Australia and other parts of the globe during their respective peak seasons as well.

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"Twindemic" averted as flu reports plummet amid coronavirus crisis

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