Flu high in Washington as "quad-demic" hits the U.S.
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Flu activity remains elevated in Washington as a winter wave of COVID, RSV and norovirus sweep much of the U.S., state and national data show.
Why it matters: The result is a "quad-demic" of illness hitting simultaneously during what's shaping up to be a more active virus season than last year.
By the numbers: From Jan. 19-25 this year, there were 268 flu patients in the hospital, compared with 115 around the same time in 2024 and 77 in 2023, per the state Department of Health.
- The numbers are based on the seven-day average of hospital beds occupied by patients with lab-confirmed flu.
- As of Jan. 18, 65 people had died from flu-related causes during the 2024-25 season, per the health department.
Yes, but: In Washington, RSV and COVID hospitalizations are down compared with last year.
The big picture: Flu activity is high or very high in 34 states and Washington D.C., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- The overlapping threats from viral infections are straining emergency rooms and hospitals across the country, leading some administrators to recommend masking among staff, ABC News reports.
- The surge follows what was a slow start to the respiratory virus season.
What we're watching: Bird flu is becoming more adaptable as it spreads to humans, pets, and zoo animals, raising concerns about a growing threat, experts warned last week.