Seasonal Influenza Remains High in Maine

• By: Maureen Carland
• On: 02/27/2025 11:17:17
• In: Quality/Regulatory

Maine continues to have high influenza activity.  So far this season there have been over 900 admitted to the hospital this season! 
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) encourages everyone to take steps to protect themselves and others from getting sick.

People with flu often experience fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. Certain groups face a higher risk of developing severe illness and hospitalization, including:

• adults 65 years and older
• people with certain chronic medical conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes, or heart disease)
• pregnant people
• children younger than 5 years (particularly those under 2 years old)

Recent data indicate that one in 10 emergency department visits in Maine are related to flu-like illness. Last week marked the fourth consecutive week with more than 100 flu-related hospital admissions in Maine. Additionally, the Maine CDC has reported 42 flu-related deaths and 109 flu outbreaks so far this season.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu or becoming severely ill from the virus and its complications. It is not too late to receive a flu shot this season. Annual flu vaccination can help reduce the risk of illness, lessen the severity of symptoms, and prevent missed work or school.

To protect yourself and others, the Maine CDC recommends the following prevention strategies in addition to getting vaccinated:

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and objects.

For more information about the flu and prevention tips, please visit www.maineflu.gov. To find the nearest location to get a flu vaccine, contact your local pharmacy or health care provider.
 
Staff contact: mcarland@mehca.org