2 more Pa. deaths reported as flu cases continue to increase
The past week saw another sharp increase in confirmed influenza cases across Pennsylvania and two additional flu-associated deaths, according to data released Tuesday by the state Health Department.
As of the week ending Dec. 28, a total of 17,349 laboratory-confirmed flu cases have been reported this season. That’s up 56% from the week before.
Reports have now been received from 66 of the state’s 67 counties, up one from the week before. Forest County is now alone in having no confirmed flu cases, according to the department.
“Typically, we see a slower start to flu season in the more rural areas as there is less population,” department spokeswoman Brittany Lauffer said. “This is generally the time of year where we do see significant increases in flu cases statewide, and we are seeing increases including in rural areas.
“As the flu continues to become more widespread across Pennsylvania, we are urging residents to get your flu vaccine now,” she said. “It is not too late, and there is no better measure to protect yourself from the flu.”
Hospitalizations increased 44% to 267 and there now have been nine flu-associated deaths. Seven of the people who died were 65 or older, while two were between the ages of 50 and 64.
The state has not disclosed where deaths happened.
The seven-county Pittsburgh region saw a 38% increase in the past week, from 5,533 cases to 7,625. That increase is down from the 53% increase that had been seen the week before.
About 44% of the state’s confirmed flu cases have been in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties.
Allegheny County alone accounts for 24% of the state’s flu cases with 4,099, an increase of 34% from the week before.
Westmoreland County influenza cases topped 1,000, increasing 59% to 1,099. Among the seven counties, Butler had the largest week-to-week increase, jumping 85% to 207.
Influenza Type B continues to be most prevalent, accounting for 76% of the state’s cases.
Brian C. Rittmeyer, a Pittsburgh native and graduate of Penn State University's Schreyer Honors College, has been with the Trib since December 2000. He can be reached at brittmeyer@triblive.com.
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