Flu Season Continues in Middle-America

The Walgreens Flu Index® recently published information regarding flu activity compiled using retail prescription data for antiviral medications used to treat influenza across Walgreens locations nationwide.   

As of March 16, 2024, Walgreens listed the Top Designated Markets with Flu Activity were:

1. Ft. Smith-Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Ark.
2. Omaha, Neb.
3. Oklahoma City, Okla.
4. El Paso, Texas (Las Cruces, N.M.)
5. Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Ark.

Seperately the U.S. CDC reported five influenza-associated pediatric deaths during the 2023-2024 flu season during Week # 11. This data increases the flu season total to 121 pediatric deaths.

Last flu season, 184 influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported.

As of March 24, 2024, various types of flu vaccines remain available at most community pharmacies. About 158 million flu vaccines had been distributed this season.

Note: The Walgreens Flu Index is not intended to illustrate levels or severity of flu activity but rather to illustrate which populations are experiencing the highest incidence of flu.