Even though we have been dealing with the flu, as we know it, for over a century, it has only been in recent years that we have been hearing about it in the media.

For decades, the flu, like the common cold, was something that popped up during the winter months.  People would catch the influenza virus, spend a few days feeling awful, and then recover.

Well, that was how the illness played out for most people.  Sadly, some people pass away from the virus.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 6,000 people per year pass away from the flu.  When pneumonia is included, that number jumps to about 47,000 people per year.

Recent CDC statistics show that the flu is incredibly common.  About 48% of adults (people who are 18 or older) in the United States have had the flu in the last year.

 

Maine Sees a Spike in Flu Cases

According to an article in the KJ, Maine has seen a massive spike in the number of confirmed influenza cases in the last few weeks.

The article explains that Maine saw 1,131 flu cases during the week ending January 24th.  That's almost double the number of cases that Maine had in the previous week and over double the number from two weeks before.  There were 708 cases reported for the week ending January 17th and there were 541 cases for the week ending January 10th.

mio6556 / Unsplash
mio6556 / Unsplash
loading...

So far, Maine has seen over 3,300 flu cases during the 2024/2025 flu season, which runs from October through May.

Last week, 62 people were hospitalized with the flu.

The Centers for Disease Control website lists tips for preventing the spread of the flu.  These tips include washing your hands, avoiding touching your face/eyes, staying home when you are sick, and getting the influenza vaccine.

READ MORE: Portland Has Been Named One of the Country's Best Cities to Visit

11 Hiding Places Burglars in Maine, New Hampshire, & Massachusetts Always Check

Thanks to AAA and comments from our listeners, we have been able to put together a list of some of the common hiding places that burglars check when they break into your home.

2025 Concerts in Maine, New Hampshire, & Massachusetts

These are some of the most anticipated tours coming to New England in 2025

More From Q97.9