This winter, California is experiencing a significant shift in respiratory virus mortality, with the number of flu-related deaths exceeding COVID-related deaths for the first time since early 2020. Precautionary measures like social distancing and mask-wearing previously suppressed flu rates. However, as vaccinations rolled out and public precautions decreased, flu has returned to its typical mortality patterns, leading to a potentially severe season, especially among older populations. Experts warn that this could be the worst flu season of the 21st century, highlighting the changing dynamics in respiratory illness fatality rates.
"Prior to COVID, influenza was the only epidemic infectious disease in the developed world that every year significantly changes the mortality rates," said Dr. John Swartzberg.
"Social distancing, mask-wearing and avoiding indoor crowds helped stop the spread of COVID and flu at the same time," highlighting the impact of pandemic precautions.
"This may become the worst influenza season we've had so far in the 21st century," as death rates from flu surpass those from COVID, according to experts.
"Since late December, the percent of deaths coded as flu-related has surpassed the percent of deaths coded as COVID-related," reflecting a significant shift in mortality trends.
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