CDC: Influenza rates continue to drop nationwide, though flu incidence is picking up in the West

ATLANTA — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday reported a slight drop in influenza-like illnesses across the country, but even so the season is still going strong. The proportion of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness for the week ended Jan. 12 was 4.6%, above the national baseline of 2.2%

Thirty states and New York City reported high ILI activity; 10 states experienced moderate activity; 7 states experienced low activity; and 3 states experienced minimal activity. That gives an indication as to the severity of the flu. Geographically, 48 states reported widespread influenza activity. 

A look at CDC's interactive map shows ILI severity picking up slightly in the West. Below, CDC's ILI indicator map for the week ended Jan. 5 is followed by CDC's map for the week ended Jan. 12. 

CDC also depicted the progress of this year's flu season as compared to years past. 

FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE FLU EPIDEMIC SWEEPING THE NATION, CLICK HERE.