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Boston Globe

Flu hospitalizations hit five-year high in Rhode Island

So far this season, there have been two recorded influenza-associated deaths. Related : The data also shows physician office visits for influenza-like illness peaked on Feb. 1, making up 7.14 percent of outpatient visits. Advertisement In New England, the flu rate is higher than the national average, with influenza-like illness visits to physicians in the region hitting 8.8 percent earlier this month, ahead of 7.76 percent nationally, state data shows. Get Rhode Island News Alerts Sign up to get breaking news and interesting stories from Rhode Island in your inbox each weekday. Enter Email Sign Up In Massachusetts, The reasons why that second wave of flu has delivered a delayed and powerful punch are not clear, although Dr. Sandeep Jubbal, an infectious diseases specialist at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester said 'Usually flu transmission is higher in colder weather,' he said. In Rhode Island, flu activity increased over the past three weeks, while COVID-19 and RSV activity declined, According to the state Department of Health, Rhode Island has also recorded 74 confirmed or suspected norovirus outbreaks since Dec. 1, which 'have largely been associated with locations such as schools and congregate living settings.' Public health officials are now reminding the public to practice good health habits to limit the spread of viruses. 'The flu is a very serious virus that can send someone to the hospital, and norovirus can be dangerous for some people too,' Rhode Island Director of Health Dr. Jerry Larkin said in a statement. 'Both viruses spread easily. However, by taking a few simple preventive steps, you can help keep yourself and those around you safe. These steps are especially important for people who are at higher risk due to underlying medical conditions or pregnancy, as well as younger children and older adults.' Advertisement Experts recommend everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot and an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Those who are sick should stay home until symptoms improve for 24 hours, wash their hands throughout the day, and cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, officials said. Last month, several hospitals and health care facilities around the state Material from previous Globe stories was used in this report. Christopher Gavin can be reached at