County of Marin Health and Human Services

Influenza Surveillance Update

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Although influenza season officially begins in late September, influenza activity usually peaks in December or January.  Influenza seasons range in severity from mild to severe.  Given the variation in timing and severity of influenza activity each season, frequent assessment of influenza data at a countywide level is needed to understand the extent to which influenza may be impacting Marin residents.  Knowledge of local influenza patterns can also guide clinical decision-making in testing and treatment. The Marin Influenza Surveillance Update is prepared and distributed weekly during influenza season to share influenza activity data with clinicians, other healthcare professionals, and the community. 

The report is a team effort consisting of the following partners:

  • Medical centers in Marin, including Kaiser San Rafael Medical Center, Marin General Hospital and Novato Community Hospital/Terra Linda Urgent Care, provide de-identified clinical and laboratory data.
  • County of Marin Department of Health and Human Services staff analyze the data and prepare the report.
  • State and national public health agencies publish weekly reports that are referenced for context.

The Marin section of the report summarizes laboratory testing and visits to local emergency departments for influenza-like illness.  Additional measures are presented for the state and national levels including mortality and graphic spread across the United States. 

The first edition of this year’s Influenza Surveillance Update will be distributed in mid-October.  The report will be sent to clinicians by email and can also be accessed at www.MarinFlu.org.  

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