Update: Influenza Activity -- United States, 1990-91
During December 1990 (weeks 48-52) and January 1991 (weeks 1
and 2), influenza and influenza-like illness activity were higher
in the United States than in previous weeks (Table 1). As of
January 18, greater than 95% of the approximately 125 influenza
virus isolates reported to CDC have been influenza B. Deaths
associated with pneumonia and influenza are at levels expected
for this time of year.
During December, a small number of outbreaks of influenza-like
illnesses were reported in schools and colleges in the
northeastern United States. Through January 18, there have been
no reports of outbreaks in chronic-care facilities or nursing
homes.
Reported by: State and territorial health department
epidemiologists and state public health laboratory directors. WHO
Collaborating Laboratories. Sentinel Physicians Influenza
Surveillance System of the American Academy of Family Practice.
Epidemiology Office and Influenza Br, Div of Viral and
Rickettsial Diseases, Center for Infectious Diseases, CDC.
Editorial Note
Editorial Note: During the 1989-90 influenza season, widespread
influenza outbreaks occurred during December 1989, and influenza
A(H3N2) was the predominant virus isolated. Although influenza B
has been the predominant virus isolated this season, culturing
for influenza viruses remains important in the evaluation of
respiratory illnesses in high-risk persons, especially those in
group living situations, because amantadine may be useful in
treatment and prophylaxis if influenza A is identified (1).
Amantadine is effective against influenza A but not against
influenza B. Parents and health-care workers should consult a
physician before administering aspirin to children with influenza
and influenza-like illness because its use may increase the risk
for Reye syndrome (2).
References
ACIP. Prevention and control of influenza. MMWR 1990;39(no.
RR-7).
Hurwitz ES, Barrett MJ, Bregman D, et al. Public Health
Service Study of Reye's Syndrome and Medications: report of the
main study. JAMA 1987;257:1905-11.
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