The Arkansas Department of Health has reported its first flu-related death of the season in their latest update. This is part of the second weekly report for the October-April 2024-2025 flu season.
According to the report, flu activity in the state is currently minimal, rated at 1 on a 13-point scale.
There have been no reported flu outbreaks in nursing homes or other congregate settings. Emergency rooms are seeing low numbers of visits for both flu and COVID-19, with each accounting for less than 2% of total visits. RSV accounts for 0.08% of emergency room visits.
Arkansas experienced 135 flu-related deaths during the 2023 flu season, with 66% of these deaths occurring among unvaccinated individuals. Additionally, 22 COVID-19 related deaths have been reported in the state for the week ending October 12.
Since January 1, there have been 412 COVID-19 related deaths, contributing to a total of 761 deaths in 2021. Pneumonia-related deaths for the week ending October 12 totaled 57.
The report notes that the Department of Health only receives reports on a portion of flu and COVID-19 cases, as only hospitalizations, deaths, and outbreaks are required to be reported. RSV has no reporting requirements.
