Chicago Doctors Urge Flu Shots in October as Mutated H1N1 Drives Early Cases
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Oct 23
Chicago Doctors Urge Flu Shots in October as Mutated H1N1 Drives Early Cases
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Oct 23
Summary
Chicago doctors are pushing residents to get flu shots now after cases began rising in October, earlier than the usual November-to-December climb.
A mutated H1N1 strain is driving the early surge, doctors said, because the variant more easily evades existing immunity.
Illinois flu activity remains low but is trending upward statewide, while Chicago officials said city levels are slightly above the same point in the past five years.
CDPH has already started offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations regardless of insurance, stressing that this season's flu shot can still reduce severe illness, hospitalization and death even if it is not a perfect match.
The CDC said the highest flu activity is now on the West Coast, underscoring concern that Chicago's season may accelerate sooner than normal.