CDC: Modest Decline in H1N1 Activity

Pandemic influenza activity has declined during the last week in the United States, according to today's CDC briefing from Anne Schuchat, MD, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. A total of 43 states are now reporting "widespread" activity, Schuchat said, which is down from 46 states last week.

However, Schuchat advised, flu activity at this time is much greater than activity during the same time last year. She further cautioned that flu activity, particularly during this season, is unpredictable.

In addition, there have been a cumulative 171 laboratory-confirmed pediatric deaths due to pandemic flu; about two thirds of these fatalities were children with underlying conditions (eg, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy). But the CDC estimates a far greater number of pediatric deaths due to H1N1. The Center will provide new mortality estimates in the near future.

The supply and distribution of pandemic flu vaccine continues to increase. Schuchat reported that a cumulative number of 54.1 million doses have been made available, which is 11 million more doses than 1 week ago. And 93% of the available supplies have been ordered by states. A total of 94.5 million doses of seasonal flu vaccine, the distribution of which is managed by the private sector, have been disseminated.

Schuchat also provided 4 tips for holiday travel:

1. Travel "well"—meaning, if possible, travel only when you're well.
2. Wash your hands.
3. Cover your coughs.
4. Get vaccinated—particularly if you're in a targeted population.

Statements from the media included comments about "potentially significant" viral mutations discovered in 3 H1N1-related cases (2 fatalities and 1 seriously ill patient) in Norway. Schuchat responded that these mutated viruses, although possibly concerning, have been seen in mild cases as well.