According to the latest estimates by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 2.9 million people in the United States have been infected with seasonal flu so far. Among them, about 30,000 have been hospitalized, and 1,200 people have died.

The CDC stated that seasonal influenza is on the rise across most parts of the country, with Influenza A (H3N2) spreading as the dominant virus this season. In the week ending December 6, U.S. public health laboratories nationwide detected 547 influenza viruses.

During the same week, the first flu-related pediatric death of this season was also reported. The CDC has particularly recommended that people aged six months and older receive the annual flu vaccine. Similarly, the center noted that some medications are available for flu treatment. These medicines are most effective when started early and are especially important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications.- RSS/Xinhua