Influenza Begins Spreading South

The World Health Organization (WHO) today published Influenza Update N° 443, confirming flu detections decreased steeply in January 2023 after a peak in late 2022.

After the end of January 2023, global activity increased until a peak around week #10, after which detections decreased.

In the countries of North America, most indicators of influenza activity were at levels typically observed towards the end of the annual flu season.

And as of April 17, 2023, overall influenza detections in Europe decreased, and influenza positivity from sentinel sites decreased to 16% but remained above the epidemic threshold at the regional level.

Of 41 European countries, 13 reported moderate intensity, with the remainder reporting low or below baseline intensity.

Influenza activity was low last week in the Caribbean and Central American countries.

However, increases in influenza activity were reported in Belize and Guatemala, where activity was close to the moderate threshold.

And the tropical countries of South America, influenza remained low, except for Brazil, Peru, and the Plurinational State of Bolivia, which reported high activity.

Since spreading influenza is a year-round health risk, the WHO and the U.S. CDC recommend international travelers speak with a healthcare provider about flu shot options.

For example, the HEB Pharmacy at UT Health in Austin, Texas (78712), located near the Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), offers pre-departure travel vaccination advice and services.