For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, influenza is causing more deaths in California than the coronavirus, according to state health data. While COVID-19 has dominated as the deadliest respiratory virus in recent years, flu-related fatalities have now surpassed those attributed to COVID in the state this winter.

Newsweek has reached out to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for comment on the matter.

Why It Matters

The shift signals a return to pre-pandemic flu trends but raises concerns as vaccination rates remain lower than in past years. Public health experts warn this could become one of the worst flu seasons in recent history, particularly affecting older adults and young children.

What To Know

Since late December, the percentage of deaths coded as flu-related has exceeded those from COVID-19, according to California’s Department of Public Health. Flu now accounts for about 2 percent of deaths statewide, a higher rate than in the last two winters.

Experts suggest the rise in flu deaths may be linked to lower vaccination rates, particularly among children. Data from the CDC shows that flu vaccine uptake among those aged six months to 17 years is at 45 percent, compared to 58 percent in early 2020.

Dr. John Swartzberg, an infectious disease expert at UC Berkeley, cautions that this flu season could be the worst of the 21st century. Current data shows nearly equal circulation of H1N1 and H3N2 strains of influenza A, with influenza B typically emerging later in the season.

Since July 1, California has recorded at least 561 flu-related deaths, with the majority occurring among those over 65. At least 10 pediatric flu deaths have been reported in the state this season, while three pediatric deaths have been linked to COVID in the same period.

While avian influenza has made headlines due to its spread among animals, Swartzberg notes that there is no evidence linking it to this year’s human flu surge.

The most effective way to protect yourself from both types of seasonal flu and lessen the severity of infection is by getting vaccinated.

According to the CDC, “Seasonal flu vaccines are designed to protect against influenza viruses that typically cause epidemics, including one influenza A(H1N1) virus, one influenza A(H3N2) virus, and one influenza B/Victoria lineage virus.”

“Getting a flu vaccine helps guard against these viruses and others that are antigenically similar to those in the vaccine.”

Other precautionary measures during flu season include frequent hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol-based rub, refraining from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, ensuring proper ventilation or air purification indoors, and avoiding contact with sick individuals.

For treating flu, doctors often prescribe antiviral medications. Those with the flu are encouraged to rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter medications to alleviate aches and fever if necessary.

What People Are Saying

Dr. John Swartzberg, UC Berkeley Public Health: “This may become the worst influenza season we’ve had so far in the 21st century.”

What Happens Next

Experts recommend taking the same precautions used to avoid COVID, such as masking indoors and avoiding crowded places. Health officials also urge those who have not yet received a flu vaccine to do so, as it remains the best defense against severe illness.