In a recent flu season update, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a worrying uptick in certain respiratory viruses, signaling potential health concerns as the 2024-25 season unfolds. While national flu activity remains low overall, particularly among adults, there has been a notable increase in pediatric cases, raising alarm bells among healthcare professionals.

The CDC highlighted that emergency department visits for flu symptoms have risen slightly among children, accompanied by a grim report of the first confirmed pediatric flu death of the current season. This tragic event was linked to an unsubtyped influenza A virus and was one of two child deaths reported. The national pediatric death toll for the previous season now stands at 204.

In addition to flu-related concerns, the CDC's updates reveal that COVID-19 activity remains stable or is declining in most areas. Wastewater data collected via the national monitoring program, WastewaterSCAN, shows low levels of SARS-CoV-2, with the Midwest currently exhibiting the highest concentrations. Importantly, variants of the virus are being closely monitored, with a recent decline in the KP.3.1.1 variant proportions and an ominous rise in the XEC variant, which may pose new challenges this season.

Further complicating the respiratory landscape, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity is on the rise, particularly in southern and southeastern regions of the United States, predominantly affecting young children.

Additionally, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a groundbreaking trial studying the antiviral drug brincidofovir as a potential treatment for mpox (formerly known as monkeypox). This initiative is critical as Africa surpasses 50,000 mpox cases. Dr. Jean Kaseya, director general of the Africa CDC, emphasized the continent's commitment to leading its health initiatives and developing vital therapeutics, showcasing African ownership in addressing health crises.

In a worrying update, Kenya reported three new mpox cases after a brief hiatus without new infections. This resurgence is attributed to ongoing transmission dynamics, fueled by multiple co-circulating clades of the virus.

Lastly, attention shifts to an emerging health threat: the Yezo virus, discovered through disease surveillance in northeast China. Researchers identified this tick-borne virus in a small percentage of participants, urging clinicians to remain vigilant for symptoms such as fever, headache, and gastrointestinal problems. As more ticks tested positive for the virus, experts called for enhanced surveillance to prevent it from spreading further, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of the taiga tick.

The convergence of these respiratory viruses, including a reminder of mpox and new threats like the Yezo virus, emphasizes the critical need for continued vigilance and public health action. As these health challenges evolve, both individual and collective efforts will be essential to mitigate risks and protect vulnerable populations, especially young children who are exhibiting increasing case numbers. Stay informed and take precautions this season!