Synopsis: For the week ending October 31st, flu activity was minimal.
* Since the official start of the 2015/16 season, two influenza-associated hospitalizations have been confirmed (both during the week ending 10/24). No influenza-associated hospitalizations were confirmed during the most recent week (10/31).
* Influenza-like illness reported by Kaiser Permanente for the Denver-Boulder metropolitan area increased slightly from 0.6% to 0.7%, but remained below seasonal baseline (1.0%). Influenza-like illness reported by Mesa County remained low at 0.5%.
* Sentinel hospital labs (19/25 reporting) tested 407 specimens and 6 were positive for influenza (three each for influenza A and influenza B). Caution should be used when interpreting these data based on the possibility of false positive results with the current use of rapid flu tests
* Since 10/4/2015, 15 specimens have been sent to the State lab for confirmation (seven from inpatient hospital visits and eight from outpatient hospital visits). Of which, two (13%) confirmed positive for influenza A (H3).
* No outbreaks associated with influenza have been reported thus far. No pediatric deaths associated with influenza have been reported thus far.
To view the weekly CDC flu surveillance Reports, go to: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/index.htm
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