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DPH reports this flu season more severe than 2009-2010 swine flu year

Delaware Public Media

Delaware has now officially reported more cases of the flu this year than 2009-2010, when the state experienced an outbreak of the notorious “swine flu.”

The state Division of Public Health now says it has confirmed 2,309 cases of flu in Delaware. That’s more than the yearly total for the 2009-2010 season, which saw 2,247.DPH has also confirmed 28 flu-related deaths have been confirmed so far this season, four times the amount than in 2009-2010.

Paul Silverman, associate deputy director of DPH, says there could be any number of reasons why this flu season is so severe.

“One possibility here is that the timing of the increase in the circulating virus just allowed it to get a really good foothold,” he said.

Silverman adds that just because this year’s outbreak isn’t avian or swine flu doesn’t mean it’s any less dangerous.

“Every year it kills a lot of people, especially the elderly,” he said. “If there’s any lesson from this year it’s that we shouldn’t take it with a complacent attitude.”

DPH says that while the amount of flu cases appears to have peaked for the season, Delawareans should still take precautions against the disease. Silverman urges residents to call, not visit, medical providers if they are experiencing symptoms.

He also says receiving a flu shot is still one of the best ways to prevent infection.