Maryland sees low flu rates as early cases appear elsewhere

Maryland has not yet experienced a rise in influenza cases.

Medical experts at Johns Hopkins University report that while early spikes have appeared in the southern and western United States, the state remains quiet. Current data indicates that the cases seen so far are driven by a variant of the H1N1 strain. Officials state that this year's vaccine provides strong coverage against the specific variant circulating in the nation.

Dr. Anna Durbin, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Immunization Research, urged the public to get vaccinated immediately. She cited a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noting almost 5,000 laboratory confirmed influenza hospitalizations nationwide during the week ending October 17. Andrew Pekosz, an immunology researcher at Johns Hopkins, agreed that the current vaccine can recognize the H1N1 variant. He described the immune escape as partial or incomplete. Pekosz stated there is no cause for concern right now but called the current moment a final opportunity for vaccination. He explained that vaccines function best when administered before the season begins, and most of the United States has not yet seen a major increase in cases.

This season marks the first year an mRNA vaccine is available for flu prevention. This formulation uses a synthetic strand of genetic material rather than a killed form of the virus. The new option is currently limited to individuals aged 50 and older. Researchers are monitoring how this new vaccine compares to traditional forms. If it performs well, it could allow for a faster rollout of vaccines against unexpected flu variants. Durbin explained that the Food and Drug Administration meets in March to select strains for the annual vaccine. This early timing is necessary because traditional vaccines take a long time to manufacture. With an mRNA vaccine, a meeting in July or August could allow for updated strains if needed.

Vaccines are currently available at local health departments, pharmacies, and most healthcare providers.