Influenza activity in the United States of America and Canada has continued in intensity during the second and third epidemiological weeks (EW) of 2013. Outpatient visits for influenza like illness (ILI) has in both countries been above the expected average, likely due the co-circulation of other respiratory viruses. In the United States of America hospitalizations associated to influenza and deaths caused by pneumonia and influenza have continued to increase.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / World Health Organization (WHO) reiterates the series of recommendations to Member States preparing for an upcoming influenza season in order to face the possible increased circulation of the influenza virus.

Read the full document: 25 January 2013 Epidemiological Update: Increase of influenza activity in North America