Anchorage, Alaska - Public health officials in Alaska are sounding the alarm as the flu season arrives early and with increased intensity this year. According to Anna Frick, an epidemiologist with the Alaska Department of Health, the state is currently experiencing a surge in flu cases, prompting a reminder about the importance of getting vaccinated.

Frick noted, "We're definitely having a busier, earlier flu season than we have in recent years. It's here, it's in multiple parts of the state, and seems to be on the rise. So now is a great time to go get that shot."

Typically, the peak time for flu cases in Alaska is around December and January. However, this year, the number of cases has been steadily rising since late September. The recent weekly respiratory virus bulletin published by the state reported 380 lab-confirmed influenza cases last week, compared to 259 the previous week and 205 the week before.

According to Frick, this trend appears to be unique to Alaska, as flu seasons in the Lower 48 have not yet taken off. While it is unclear why the flu arrived earlier this year, Frick suggests that the cold, wet weather in recent weeks might have contributed by keeping people indoors.

Although other respiratory illnesses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 have not seen similar spikes in Alaska, health officials urge individuals to remain vigilant and prioritize vaccinations.

Influenza is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs. Everyone is susceptible to the flu, but young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable.

During the first two years of the pandemic, Alaska and the rest of the nation experienced exceptionally mild flu seasons, with fewer than 100 total influenza cases reported in Alaska in 2020. The slight uptick in 2021 still remained below pre-pandemic averages. This can be attributed to the various measures implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, which unintentionally disrupted the spread of the flu.

Last year's flu and RSV season was particularly severe across the country, including Alaska, where hospitals faced challenges with full pediatric units. RSV, a respiratory virus that typically causes mild symptoms, can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. To combat this, two new RSV vaccines for older adults and a monoclonal antibody treatment for infants and young children have been approved this year as additional forms of protection.

State health officials express hope that these newly approved protections will result in significantly fewer hospitalizations in Alaska this year. They strongly encourage high-risk individuals to consult with their healthcare providers regarding vaccination options.

To ensure widespread immunity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals older than 6 months receive their flu shot by the end of October, which aligns with the typical start of flu season.

In Alaska, the flu vaccine is available in pharmacies across the state, with many offering it free of charge with insurance. The state health department's website provides information about nearby centers distributing the flu vaccine.

As the flu season arrives early and intensifies in Alaska, health officials stress the importance of getting vaccinated to protect ourselves and the community from the impacts of the influenza virus.

Contact:
Annie Berman
Reporter, Anchorage Daily News
aberman@adn.com