Flu Cases Skyrocket by 300% in Maine—Is Your Family at Risk? Find Out Now!

Influenza cases are on the rise in Maine, with recent reports indicating a significant spike earlier in the season compared to previous years. According to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 864 reported cases of influenza for the week ending December 20, more than double the 320 cases recorded the prior week. Hospitalizations also increased sharply, jumping from 27 to 69 during the same time frame.

Dr. Laura Blaisdell, a pediatrician and infectious disease expert in Portland, commented, “We anticipated a bad flu year, and we are certainly seeing that. It’s been horrible so far.” Influenza cases typically peak at different times throughout the flu season, which runs from October to May, but in Maine, the highest activity usually occurs in January and February. Historically, severe weeks can see thousands of cases reported.

“Flu has skyrocketed in the last week and hit hard,” said Dr. Dora Anne Mills, chief health improvement officer for MaineHealth, adding that primary care offices in their network are witnessing a surge in cases. The current circulating strain, Influenza A (H3N2), is reportedly causing more severe illness than usual. For context, last year during the same reporting week, the Maine CDC documented 124 influenza cases, with only 10 hospitalizations.

As flu cases rise on the East Coast, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that New York and New Jersey are experiencing "very high" flu levels, while Massachusetts and Connecticut are rated as "high." New Hampshire is currently categorized as "moderate." Although Maine was reported as having "low" flu activity according to the U.S. CDC, this data is a week behind state-level findings, which have shown a stark increase in cases since then.

Additionally, COVID-19 cases are also rising in Maine, with the Maine CDC reporting 384 cases for the week ending December 20, up from 233 the previous week. This dual surge brings added concern to health officials who are urging the public to take necessary precautions.

The influenza vaccine remains available at various healthcare settings, including primary care practices, pharmacies, and clinics. While Dr. Blaisdell noted that this year’s vaccine does not perfectly match the current predominant strain, she emphasized its importance: “It provides protection against more severe illness and helps reduce the spread of the virus.” The circulating strain can change over the season, making vaccination critical as it may align better with emerging strains later.

Dr. Blaisdell advises those experiencing flu symptoms—such as fever, chills, fatigue, and headaches—to get tested shortly after symptoms begin. “The antiviral medications are only effective the first 72 hours after symptoms present, so get tested early to get treatment,” she said.

To mitigate flu transmission, health officials recommend several preventive measures: frequent handwashing, staying home when ill, wearing masks, and avoiding crowded indoor gatherings. These strategies are particularly crucial as the flu and COVID-19 continue to pose public health challenges in Maine and across the nation.