Swine Flu Epidemic Update 27

The CDC reported data for the week ending August 8, 2009 that the U.S. had 477 deaths, 7,511 hospitalizations, and more than 1 million confirmed, reported cases. No data is available at the state level for South Carolina from DHEC. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported 1,799 deaths. So the U.S. has begun to account for a substantially greater number of deaths from influenza. Interesting data analysis from the CDC shows that 59% of deaths occurred in patients less than 50 years old. 41% occurred in the 25-49 year old group, which is surprising, given that you would think they are in the prime of life. This helps to explain why the vaccine, once available, will be recommended more strongly in younger patients, not the regular eldest to youngest.