While forecasting the exact details of the upcoming flu season in the Northern Hemisphere can be challenging, examining the flu trends from the Southern Hemisphere provides valuable insights into what might be expected. Clues from the Southern Hemisphere’s 2024 flu season offer key information that can help employers prepare effectively for the 2024-2025 flu season.
Insights from the CDC
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in their update on August 26, 2024, observed that the flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere this year was largely consistent with trends from previous seasons, such as those from 2017‒2019 and 2022‒2023. Despite this consistency, certain regions experienced unusually high levels of influenza virus detection. This elevated activity signals that the Northern Hemisphere might face a similarly intense flu season, especially if the same strains continue circulating.
South America:
- Predominantly saw the H3N2 strain.
- Experienced high levels of flu activity and severe disease.
- Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay were particularly impacted.
Africa:
- The H1N1 strain was more common.
- Reported high levels of illness with H1N1.
- Experienced a shift to influenza B as the season progressed.
Oceania:
- Had moderate flu activity, primarily driven by the H3N2 strain.
The timing of flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere, which typically spans from April to September but can extend into October or November, may also influence the Northern Hemisphere’s flu season. This extended timeline suggests that flu activity could start earlier or last longer than usual in the Northern Hemisphere.
Key Takeaways
The CDC notes that while it’s useful to consider flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere ahead of the U.S. flu season, it’s important to remember that these patterns don’t always forecast what will happen in the United States. Variations in dominant flu strains and population immunity can lead to different outcomes.
Anticipating Flu Strains
The prevalence of H3N2 and H1N1 in the Southern Hemisphere suggests these strains could also be significant in the Northern Hemisphere. Employers should verify that flu vaccines are updated to protect against these strains and encourage early vaccination.
Importance of Vaccination
“Even though we cannot predict what will happen in the United States this upcoming season, we know that flu has the potential to cause significant illness, hospitalizations, and deaths, all of which underscore the importance of annual flu vaccination. “
The CDC stresses that vaccination remains the most effective way to defend against the flu. Even if vaccines do not entirely prevent the flu, they are crucial in reducing the severity of illness. Promoting flu vaccination among employees is essential to minimize the impact of the flu season.
Preparing for High Flu Activity
Given the high levels of flu activity observed in the Southern Hemisphere, employers should be prepared for a potentially severe flu season. To learn more, visit our 5 Effective Strategies for Flu Season Preparedness at Work article.
Implementing Health Measures
Alongside vaccination, implementing additional health and wellness measures can support a healthier workplace. This includes providing information on flu prevention, encouraging good hygiene practices, and advising employees to stay home when sick.
Staying Updated and Responsive
To effectively manage the flu season, employers should remain informed about local flu activity and follow updates from health authorities. By looking at clues from the Southern Hemisphere’s flu season and staying adaptable to emerging trends, employers can better prepare for the U.S. flu season, helping to maintain a healthier and more resilient workforce.
Ready to elevate your workforce’s health? Partner with NMS Health for your occupational health screenings and vaccinations. With NMS Health, you are not just identifying and preventing future illness; you’re investing in a safer, healthier future for your team. Get started today!
