By the time Covid became epidemic in the U.S. this year, and the shelter in place orders were first implemented, influenza season had all but resolved in America. This fall, we’ll have to contend with Covid circulating while flu also becomes epidemic. A challenge we haven’t faced

Of note: On this graph, Week 13 corresponds to March 23 to March 29. New York City implemented its stay at home order March 22nd. Most other states that implemented stay at home orders followed in the weeks after the New York order. Influenza season had almost entirely resolved.

The manufacturers of influenza vaccines increased supply for the 2020-21 season in anticipation of higher demand. We should be implementing steps now to try and increase flu vaccination rates to reduce the risk of co-infection and lower burdens on testing resources and hospitals.