Sickness and Allergies: mid-December 2023
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We're here with a mid-December check-in on sickness levels across the US! In November's blog post, we started to see an increase in influenza-like-illness consistent with the start of “flu season” in the United States. We're not here to instill fear about getting sick because it's just a part of life! But we are here to continue to share wellness reminders to help keep you and your loved ones healthy all year round!
Here's the deal- we hate that people get sick. That's precisely why we make FREAKING DELICIOUS, effective immune products to help you stay healthy!
One caveat we'd like to point out is that reporting and testing for illness is not all-inclusive. Many people will get sick and never head to the doctor, so these numbers are representative of a sample of individuals. Testing is also not always accurate and our interpretation of the data is just an interpretation. We are also not doctors, so please consult a trusted healthcare professional when necessary.
Influenza Sickness Tracker
With seasonal flu activity on the rise across the country, it's an excellent to take steps to protect yourself! In the southeast and south-central areas, flu levels are peaking, as evidenced by the increase in yellow, orange and red zones on the map below.
Influenza A seems to be the dominant strain this year with 79.9% with the dominant subtype of H1N1. (CDC Influenza Surveillance Report)
Washing hands is ALWAYS important, but it's an extremely helpful habit when germs are circulating! Plus, taking a daily dose of elderberry may help to lessen the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms!
PAST: Week Ending November 18, 2023
CURRENT: Week Ending December 8, 2023
Recent data reveals that there has been a considerable increase in upper respiratory illness, with a 6.8% positive rate for flu cases in the last two weeks alone. Check out the graph below.Compared to last year (2022), the percentage of outpatient visits for respiratory illnesses is significantly lower this year (red dotted line). This could be attributed to factors such as a delayed start to the flu season, fewer individuals seeking confirmed tests in clinics, or a generally slower start to the flu season. In contrast, last year's flu season hit hard and fast and impacted many across the country!
CDC Weekly Surveillance
According to typical flu graphs (like the one above), the peak of flu season can occur anywhere from mid-December to early March. It's evident that we need to remain vigilant and proactive to prevent the spread of influenza during this holiday season!
As you reunite with your loved ones, remember to prioritize hand hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly. You might just want to greet everyone who comes to your door with a shot of Seattle Elderberry for an immune boost and added protection!
We'll pop back in at the end of the month to see what the influenza trends are doing after a few more holiday gatherings!
Factors that Influence Flu Season
Let's get a refresher on some of the factors that what influence the onset of “flu season”:
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The Weather: Ever wonder why the flu tends to strike in winter? Cold, dry air allows the flu virus to survive longer and transmit more easily. Plus, low humidity can dry out our nasal passages, making us more susceptible to infection. It's not just the chill in the air that gets you; it's also the flu! (Source: Harvard University)
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Changes in Social Behavior: When it's cold outside, we tend to huddle indoors, increasing our close contact with others. More people in less space means the virus can hop from person to person like a game of leapfrog! This is also usually why we see an uptick in illness as kids head back to school. (Source: CDC)
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Immune System Fluctuations: Factors like vitamin D and melatonin levels can affect our immune system's ability to fight off infections. In winter, we get less sunlight (hello, shorter days!), which can lead to lower vitamin D levels. And guess what? That can make us more prone to catching the flu. (Source: NCBI)
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Virus Mutation: Influenza viruses are notorious for their ability to change and adapt. These genetic changes can impact the virus's transmissibility and virulence, making some flu seasons worse than others. Talk about an unwelcome surprise! (Source: CDC)
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in shaping the flu season in the USA. We can't change the weather, but we can make small changes to our routines like using cool-mist humidifiers, drinking plenty of fluids, washing hands, keeping our distance when we feel unwell and taking steps to support a healthy immune system.
Conclusions
Flu season is upon us, but theres's no need to be scared when you can be prepared! Elderberry has been shown to lessen both the severity and duration of influenza symptoms when taken at the onset of illness. Don't delay, make sure you're stocked with elderberry TODAY!
We always stand behind our products with our "100% Love It" Guarantee. If you don't love something, we'll help you find another product or send you a refund!
How We can Support You
Want to know more about elderberries and how they have been shown to reduce severity and duration of flu symptoms in clinical trials? READ MORE HERE
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