By Geena Monahan—For the North Star Reporter
North Attleborough is seeing a sharp rise in confirmed influenza cases heading into the new year, mirroring a statewide surge that public health officials say is pushing flu activity well above seasonal norms.
Public Health Nurse Anne Marie Fleming said the town saw 61 laboratory-confirmed flu cases in December, compared to just two in November. COVID-19 cases also increased, rising from five confirmed cases in November to 19 so far this month.
However, those numbers represent only a small share of true illnesses, said Fleming.
“This is similar to an iceberg effect,” Fleming explained. “Most cases of COVID and influenza are no longer being tested unless the person is very ill.”
Fleming noted that most of the local spike occurred before and during the holiday period, when families gather indoors. Because many of the confirmed flu cases were tested on or after Dec. 20, Fleming added that the full effect may not yet be reflected in the data.
“With the holiday season, people are getting together more frequently and not always aware that they may be sharing a respiratory illness along with the gifts and good times,” she said.
Flu activity now ‘very high’ in region
Statewide data confirmed the same upward trend. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s most recent weekly influenza surveillance report, released Dec. 20, showed that influenza-like illness accounted for 7.46% of recent medical visits statewide – up from 4.52% the prior week and now well above the seasonal baseline.
Flu-associated hospitalizations nearly doubled in that same period, rising 2.13% to 4.77%. That figure peaked at 10.5% during the week of Feb. 2, 2025.
The state lists overall flu activity in the region that includes North Attleborough as “very high,” the most severe category on its five-level scale. Influenza A (H3N2) is currently the predominant strain circulating.
Massachusetts has reported 20 flu-related deaths so far this season, all among adults. Last winter, the state recorded 470 flu-associated deaths, up from 251 the previous year.
Public health guidance
As the new year approaches, Fleming said it isn’t too late to get a flu vaccine – one of the strongest tools available to prevent severe outcomes.
“Generally the vaccine is 80 to 90% effective in preventing the flu and/or reducing the severity of the illness,” she said.
The town continues to offer free flu shots, though turnout has been slower than in previous years. Fleming said that is largely because the town’s supply arrived later than usual.
“I’ve had approximately 80 people vaccinated, including homebound residents,” said Fleming. “I have 60 doses still available. This is low for this year, but primarily because I received my supply late and a lot of people that I usually vaccinate have already received them.”
She added that this year’s vaccine is a strong match for H1N1 and influenza B, though it does not closely match the dominant H3N2 strain that emerged after the formula was finalized. Still, Fleming said vaccination remains worthwhile heading into spring, when the B strain becomes more prominent.
“The shot has data showing a 70 to 75% effectiveness in preventing hospitalizations in children,” said Fleming. “That’s a big impact.”
While many think of the flu as a routine winter illness, Fleming said complications can be serious.
“People forget that the flu can lead to severe illness and even death,” she said. “Generally, it’s not the actual flu virus but the complications that may accompany the virus, such as pneumonia.”
With respiratory viruses circulating widely and the highest spikes in cases potentially yet to come, Fleming encourages residents to stay home when sick, wash hands frequently and consider vaccination if not yet immunized.
“Getting the flu vaccine gives the body a jump start on protection as you work on producing antibodies,” said Fleming.
Free flu shots remain available through the North Attleborough Public Health Department while supplies last. Walk-ins are available at Town Hall on Mondays and Thursdays, between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., and 3 to 4 p.m. Community members can also schedule appointments by calling 508-699-0100 ext. 2560 or emailing amfleming@nattleboro.com.