Increase in Flu cases in Wisconsin –
Persons 65 Years and
Older Particularly Vulnerable
The Department of Health Services (DHS) recently issued a news release on the rise in flu cases in Wisconsin. The DHS Division of Public Health (DPH) reports that people 65 years and older are at greater risk of serious complications (hospitalizations, pneumonia or death) from influenza. While flu seasons can vary in severity, this year the predominant strain of influenza currently circulating in Wisconsin (A/H3N2) has historically had a greater burden of severe flu disease among the older population. Hospitalizations are increasing rapidly with over 2/3 patients identified over 65 years old.
Currently up to six distinct respiratory viruses are circulating in Wisconsin, many of which can mimic influenza illness. Since only influenza can be treated with antiviral medication it is important to identify the cause of the outbreak. When an outbreak of acute respiratory illness is identified facility staff are encouraged to collect specimens for testing. Specimens can be tested at a private lab or, specimens can be sent to the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene for testing. Testing will be done free of charge. To request approval for testing contact the Wisconsin Division of Public Health at 608-267-9003.
For information regarding reporting requirements under Wis. Admin. Code DHS 145, please refer to the DPH memo issued November 14, 2016: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/influenza/ltc-respiratory-memo.pdf
Please view the news release for additional information including steps for protection against the flu.
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