As flu season looms over Wisconsin, residents face increased risks due to a more aggressive virus and a decline in flu vaccinations. This scenario is raising concerns among health officials who are urging people to get vaccinated before the virus peaks.
Currently, less than 26% of Wisconsin’s population has received a flu vaccine, based on the latest figures from the state Department of Health Services (DHS).
The number of flu vaccinations given in October, a peak month for flu shots, decreased by 13% compared to the previous year, according to DHS data.
Stephanie Schauer, who manages the immunization program for DHS, expressed concern about the drop in vaccinations as the holiday season approaches. She noted that December often sees an uptick in virus activity in the upper Midwest, yet fewer people seek vaccinations during this time.
“We really need to make sure that we’re getting the protection that we need ahead of the viruses coming up and really circulating at a higher level,” Schauer emphasized.
Health officials nationwide are paying close attention to this year’s flu season due to the prevalent H3N2 virus strain.
Tom Haupt, a respiratory disease epidemiologist with DHS, warned that the H3N2 strain could lead to more severe cases and increased hospitalizations. “Any H3 virus is going to be more severe, historically,” he stated.
Last winter marked one of the worst seasons for respiratory illnesses in decades, with significant cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and mycoplasma pneumonia. Fortunately, this year has not seen a similar surge in these illnesses.
Nonetheless, a concerning trend is emerging among vulnerable groups, particularly those aged 65 and older, where vaccination rates have noticeably declined. As of Monday, 52% of older adults in the state had been vaccinated, down from 64% in the previous flu season.
Despite a general decline in vaccination rates, more than half of older adults in Wisconsin continue to receive their flu shots.
Dr. Jim Conway, UW Health’s immunization program director, acknowledged the efforts of healthcare providers and public health officials in communicating the risks of flu and respiratory illnesses to seniors. However, he noted, “But it is a little bit troubling that they do seem to be, even for that group, a little bit behind.”
On the COVID-19 front, less than 10% of Wisconsinites have updated their booster as of Monday. October saw a 21% reduction in COVID vaccine uptake compared to the same month last year.
Confusion regarding access to COVID-19 boosters may have contributed to the decline in immunization rates this year.
In August, the FDA approved updated vaccines for older adults and those at higher risk of severe disease. Subsequently, a CDC advisory panel recommended the shots for anyone over 6 months old. However, new guidelines suggest patients consult healthcare providers about vaccination risks and benefits, potentially complicating access.
Schauer remarked on the situation, “There perhaps was some confusion or hesitancy if folks wanted to get both of (the boosters) at the same time. We do hope at this point that it is clear to folks that the vaccines are available and that insurance is covering it.”
