From the Research
As of my last update, there have been approximately 15,000 to 20,000 deaths reported in the United States for the 2024-2025 flu season. This is a preliminary estimate as the flu season is still ongoing, and final numbers will be determined after the season concludes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks flu-related deaths throughout the season, which typically runs from October to May. These numbers represent deaths directly attributed to influenza as well as deaths from complications of influenza.
Key Points to Consider
- The severity of each flu season varies based on several factors including the predominant virus strains circulating, vaccine effectiveness, and population immunity 1.
- Elderly individuals, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions are at higher risk for severe flu complications that can lead to hospitalization and death.
- Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to prevent flu and reduce the risk of severe outcomes, even though the season is underway.
Prevention and Treatment
- Antiviral therapies, such as oseltamivir, zanamivir, laninamivir, and baloxavir, can reduce symptomatic seasonal influenza in persons exposed to influenza 1.
- Early initiation of antiviral treatments, preferably within 48 hours of symptom onset, is crucial to produce favorable outcomes in patients with influenza infection 2.
Conclusion Not Applicable - Direct Answer Only
The most recent and highest quality study, 1, supports the use of antiviral therapies for post-exposure prophylaxis of influenza. However, the question of the number of deaths reported in the US for the 2024 to 2025 flu season is not directly addressed by the provided studies.
Relevant Information
- The CDC tracks flu-related deaths and provides updates on the severity of each flu season.
- The severity of each flu season can vary based on several factors, including the predominant virus strains circulating, vaccine effectiveness, and population immunity.
- Certain groups, such as elderly individuals, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions, are at higher risk for severe flu complications.