Status of the Flu Season in South Carolina 2022-2023

Examining the Spread of Flu in South Carolina This Season

The flu season in South Carolina is off to an early and robust start this year. Key indicators show influenza activity ramping up across the state since late fall. Understanding the status of the flu in South Carolina provides important context on risks, prevention, and public health response.

Background on Influenza

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms appear 1-4 days after infection and include fever, chills, headache, sore throat, and body aches.

Flu viruses constantly mutate and evade immunity. This makes flu seasons unpredictable. Annual vaccination is the best protection, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly.

There are two main types of seasonal flu viruses: influenza A and B. Influenza A tends to cause more severe illness. Subtypes include H1N1 and H3N2.

Key Flu Surveillance Measures

Public health officials closely track various metrics to monitor flu activity and severity. This allows them to spot trends, alert healthcare providers, and advise the public.

Some key flu surveillance indicators include:

• Laboratory testing - Percentage of samples testing positive for flu
• Outpatient visits - People seeking care for flu-like symptoms
• Hospitalizations & deaths - Serious flu complications requiring hospitalization or causing mortality
• Geographic spread - How widespread flu activity is within a state or region
• Age groups affected - Insights into hardest hit demographics

Examining these measures provides a detailed picture of how a flu season is evolving in a given area. Public health authorities share weekly flu updates once activity reaches notable levels.

flu Activity Ramps Up in South Carolina

In South Carolina, flu surveillance reports show this season kicked off strong and early. The telltale signs of growing flu presence emerged in November - about a month ahead of most flu seasons.

On a national level, the CDC indicates South Carolina progressed to "high" flu activity by mid-December. This means cases and outbreaks had become widespread throughout the state.

By the start of 2023, key indicators showed flu activity continuing to rise in South Carolina:

• Positive lab tests jumped from 1% in October to over 25% by January.
• Flu-associated hospitalizations more than quadrupled from November to December.
• All regions of the state reported high and increasing flu levels.
• Children and working-age adults were being hit hardest so far.

Officials noted both influenza A and B viruses were circulating and contributing to the growing impacts. The early and pervasive nature suggested this flu season could be more severe for South Carolina.

Regional Variations in S.C. Flu Activity

A closer look at DHEC regional data reveals some geographic differences in flu activity across South Carolina early in the season:

Upstate Region

The Upstate area (Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson) saw flu cases surge in November. By late December, lab confirmations had jumped above 30% in this region. Hospitalizations also rose markedly compared to other areas of the state.

Midlands Region

Richland and Lexington counties of the Midlands reported less intense flu activity in the early season. However, by January increased doctor visits for flu symptoms showed viruses gaining traction in this population center.

Pee Dee and Catawba Regions

Areas like Florence and Sumter saw steady escalation in flu markers since November. Schools and nursing homes experienced multiple outbreaks. Lab confirmations reached over 30% in several counties by late 2022.

Lowcountry Region

The Lowcountry around Charleston showed a slower build up than other regions. But surveillance still indicated moderate to high flu activity in this area as of January 2023.

These regional patterns help inform public health response across the Palmetto State. They also hint at how the remainder of the season may unfold in different communities.

South Carolina Flu Hospitalization Data

One of the most concerning flu measures is rates of hospitalization. Being admitted for flu complications signals elevated severity and risk. Statewide, flu hospitalizations saw major increases heading into 2023:

• November - 69 flu-related hospitalizations
• December - 305 hospitalizations
• January (1st 2 weeks) - 581 hospitalizations

This rapid early uptick does not bode well. During the entire previous 2021-2022 flu season, South Carolina recorded 2,061 total hospitalizations. At the current trajectory, this season could significantly surpass that figure.

DHEC breaks down flu hospitalizations demographically as well. So far this season, the most affected groups have been:

• Ages 41-60: 25% of hospitalizations
• Ages 61-80: 25%
• Ages 0-4: 13%

Officials say around 90% of those hospitalized were not vaccinated. Continued vaccination outreach could help slow further increases among vulnerable groups.

South Carolina Flu-Related Mortality

Flu-associated deaths represent the most severe outcome. Statewide mortality data also shows a mounting toll in 2022-2023:

• November - 2 flu-related deaths
• December - 6 reported deaths
• January (1st weeks) - 15 deaths

Sadly, about 65% of those who died from flu complications so far this season had not been vaccinated. The majority were over 65 years old.

Last season, South Carolina recorded a total of 301 flu-related deaths. Again, at the current trajectory, deaths are poised to meet or exceed 2021-2022 totals.

South Carolina's Flu Activity in National Context

Nationwide, indications point to an earlier and more active flu season across many states. The CDC's first flu burden estimates for 2022-2023 found:

• At least 13 million illnesses
• 120,000 hospitalizations
• 7,300 deaths

These nationwide figures already rival peak recent seasons. They confirm South Carolina's experience aligns with broader regional and national trends.

Geographically, states in the Southeast, South, and Southwest tended to report the highest flu levels in late 2022. This regionality is common as flu travels along travel corridors.

Aggressive early flu activity has many health experts concerned. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and vaccination to mitigate impact in South Carolina and beyond.

Looking Ahead at South Carolina's Flu Season

What should South Carolina residents expect in the remainder of the 2022-2023 flu season? Let's explore some projections and advice moving forward.

Peak Still to Come

Public health experts caution that South Carolina has likely not yet hit peak flu activity. Based on past seasons, the height typically occurs in January or February. Cases could still rise substantially in coming weeks.

Months of Circulation Ahead

Flu viruses tend to circulate widely from December to as late as May in South Carolina. Protection and vigilance will be needed for months as waves of illnesses continue.

Vaccination Urgently Recommended

Health officials are strongly urging flu shots for anyone over 6 months old who has not been vaccinated. It takes up to two weeks to reach full effectiveness but can still help in the long season ahead.

Mitigation Measures Advised

Preventive steps like hand washing, surface disinfection, mask wearing, and social distancing should be practiced consistently. Staying home when sick can significantly limit spread.

Treatment Options Available

Antiviral medications like Tamiflu can help reduce severity and duration if started early after symptom onset. Ask doctors about options if facing complications.

Most Cases Still to Come

Given the early and widespread nature of the flu season, South Carolina will likely see many more illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths before year's end. This makes prevention and preparation very important.

By closely following public health advice and sticking to prevention basics, South Carolina residents can help temper the impacts of what appears an active influenza season this year.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.