Early and Increased Influenza Activity Among Children — Tennessee, 2022–23 Influenza Season

Weekly / January 20, 2023 / 72(3);49–54

Christine M. Thomas, DO^1,2; Elizabeth B. White, PhD^1,3; Noah Kojima, MD^1,3; Mary-Margaret A. Fill, MD²; Samir Hanna, MD²; Timothy F. Jones, MD²; Caitlin N. Newhouse, MD²; Kelly Orejuela, MPH²; Emma Roth, MPH²; Sarah Winders, MPH²; Daniel R. Chandler, MS, MBA⁴; Carlos G. Grijalva, MD⁴; William Schaffner, MD⁴; Jonathan E. Schmitz, MD, PhD⁴; Juliana DaSilva, MA³; Marie K. Kirby, PhD³; Alexandra M. Mellis, PhD³; Melissa A. Rolfes, PhD³; Kelsey M. Sumner, PhD^1,3; Brendan Flannery, PhD³; H. Keipp Talbot, MD⁴; John R. Dunn, DVM, PhD² (VIEW AUTHOR AFFILIATIONS)

Summary

What is already known about this topic?

During fall 2022, many states reported increased respiratory virus activity earlier than is typically observed. Information was limited about the impact of early influenza activity.

What is added by this report?

After several low-severity influenza seasons, the 2022–23 season in Tennessee has been characterized by earlier activity, higher rates of pediatric hospitalization, and a higher rate of symptomatic illness among children than among adults or during past seasons.

What are the implications for public health practice?

To prevent influenza and severe influenza complications, all persons aged ≥6 months should get vaccinated, avoid contact with ill persons, and take influenza antivirals if recommended and prescribed.

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