Ohio’s flu season is hitting hard, with more people across the state experiencing coughs, sneezes, and doctor visits than usual. Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff reported that flu rates are high and continuing to climb.
For the week ending Jan. 3, the state saw 1,911 flu-related hospitalizations, up from 1,456 the previous week and 1,305 at the same point last year. While a spike in hospitalizations is typical for this time of year, Dr. Vanderhoff said part of this increase is linked to a new flu strain circulating in Ohio: H3N2 Clade K, sometimes dubbed the “super flu.”
“This is a new strain that most Ohioans haven’t encountered before this flu season,” Dr. Vanderhoff explained. “Because of that, we have little immune protection, which allows the virus to spread quickly.”
Even so, he stressed that getting the flu vaccine is still your best defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death.
Tragically, the state reported its first pediatric flu death of the season on Dec. 31, a teen from Greene County.
According to the CDC, only about 37.5% of Ohio children and 41.3% of adults have received their flu shot so far this year.
“It’s not too late to get vaccinated,” Dr. Vanderhoff said. “Flu season can last through the spring, and while the shot takes about two weeks to become fully effective, getting it sooner means you’re protected sooner.” Flu vaccines are widely available at doctor’s offices, retail pharmacies, and standalone pharmacy locations across Ohio.
In addition to flu updates, Dr. Vanderhoff addressed recent changes to the CDC’s recommended vaccine schedule for children.
He emphasized that the majority of vaccines, including those required for school, haven’t changed. Parents are encouraged to talk with their child’s doctor to make sure their children are up to date.
For Ohioans who want to keep tabs on flu activity statewide or need more guidance on vaccines, the Ohio Department of Health’s influenza website and Respiratory Dashboard are great resources.
Flu season may be in full swing, but a simple shot could make all the difference.
