LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has confirmed the first influenza-related death in the state during the 2023-24 flu season. The person was reported to be older than 65 years of age.
The ADH provides a Weekly Viral Respiratory Diseases Report for clinicians with information on influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity in the state.
This week, Arkansas reported “Minimal”, or 3 out of 13, for the Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI) activity level indicator determined by data reported to ILINet.
This flu season, one outbreak has been reported from nursing homes or other congregate setting institutions.
Hospital Emergency Department visits were at 2.25% for Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI), 2.24% for COVID-Like-Illness (CLI), and 0.49% for RSV. Outpatient visits for ILI were at 2.09%.
Arkansas has reported no COVID-19-related deaths this week and 478 deaths since January 1, 2023.
You can report flu year-round and view the Viral Respiratory Disease Weekly Report here. You can also access the reporting website directly by clicking here.