Update: influenza activity--United States, December 21, 2003-January 3, 2004

The number of states reporting widespread influenza activity decreased during December 21, 2003-January 3, 2004. During the latest reporting week, ending January 3, health departments in 38 states, the District of Columbia, and New York City reported widespread influenza activity. Nine states reported regional activity, one state reported local activity, and one state and Guam reported sporadic activity. The percentage of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) decreased in all surveillance regions during the week ending January 3, with an overall national percentage of 6.2%. This percentage is above the national baseline of 2.5%. The percentage of specimens testing positive for influenza also decreased; however, the percentage of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) increased.