Flu deaths jump by 28 in Minnesota, MDH says

Another 28 people have died from flu-related illnesses, according to the latest flu activity report from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

While the deaths were confirmed in the past week, the spike in the number of deaths happened a few weeks ago, according to the report, with at least 10 confirmed flu deaths in each of the past three weeks.

A total of 95 people have died from flu-related illnesses this season in Minnesota, including two children. That matches the total from all of last flu season, with one more pediatric death this season as well. However, the number is still well below the 2016-17 and 2017-18 flu seasons, when 273 and 440 total deaths were reported, respectively.

The average age of those who’ve died from the flu this season in the state is 73.

Hospitalizations declined last week, with 349 reported, down from 441 the previous week. More than 3,200 people have been hospitalized with flu-related illnesses this season in Minnesota.

School outbreaks also increased last week with 43 reported, up from 35 the week prior. A total of 848 school outbreaks have been reported this year, according to MDH.

The flu is still considered widespread in Minnesota.