Season Marked by Elevated Illness and Hospitalizations, Lower Vaccination Rates

Flu-related deaths and hospitalizations were higher than usual during the recently concluded influenza-reporting season in Snohomish County. Health officials say it’s a reminder to stay vigilant and get annual vaccinations as the new flu season kicks off. Fewer than one-third of Snohomish County residents get vaccinated against the flu.

Flu viruses typically circulate during fall and winter, with this year’s season running through April. But viruses are detected year-round, and the Snohomish County Health Department’s surveillance period for the 2024-2025 season officially ended Sept. 27. Here are key findings from this year’s report:

• Hospitalizations: 859 flu-related hospitalizations were reported, with the highest rates among adults aged 65 and older. The overall hospitalization rate reached 99.1 per 100,000 residents, nearly six times higher than the previous season.
• Deaths: 53 influenza-related deaths occurred, the highest total in more than a decade. The median age of those who died was 71.
• Emergency Visits: Emergency department visits for flu-like illness peaked at 8.3% in early February but dropped to 0.2% by season’s end, well below the 1.1% masking threshold for health care facilities. Masking guidelines for this year’s respiratory virus season are expected to be released later this month.
• Schools and Long-Term Care: School absenteeism remained low throughout the season, and 24 outbreaks were reported in long-term care facilities.
• Vaccination Coverage: Only 30.4% of residents received a flu vaccine, a slight decline from previous years. Coverage was highest among seniors and children under five.

The increase in hospitalizations is partly due to expanded reporting through the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network, noted Holli Bruce, lead epidemiologist for the Snohomish County Health Department.

Flu activity typically rises in late fall and peaks between December and February. Australia, often considered a bellwether for the Northern Hemisphere, experienced one of its worst flu seasons in a decade, with a ninefold increase in Influenza B cases. Cases surged as early as April and peaked in June–July, much earlier than usual.

“So don’t delay getting your flu shot for the upcoming season!” said Snohomish County Health Officer Dr. James Lewis. “Seniors, children under 2, those who are pregnant, and those with chronic conditions should prioritize vaccination.”

Flu shots reduce the likelihood of severe complications and also reduce the spread of disease to those who are at highest risk for severe disease.

For more details, read the full report on www.snohd.org