Speak Up: Flu cases nearly nonexistent this season

Only 11 cases of the flu have been recorded by the DPH during the 2020-21 season. At this time last season, there were 4,383 reported. The state is experiencing what countries in the Southern Hemisphere, whose flu season is the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere’s, reported over the summer. The steps that can safeguard individuals against COVID-19 also lead to lower amounts of community spread of the flu.

• Gee, do you think maybe it’s been labeled as COVID this year? — Rebecca Cebenka Welch

• It’s because the lockdown doesn’t just reduce COVID transmission. Come on, people. — Ant W. Terrigno

• I think the governor is looking for a good reason to declare a health emergency every year. No pesky legislature to question his motives. — Bob Skuse

• Maybe because everyone is wearing masks and avoiding crowds? — Tommy Bou

• Except during peaceful protests, right? — Clint Brothers

• Yes, and insurrections. — Charlie Harper

• Money! It’s all about COVID-19 to scare everyone! — Albert Larimore

• Because we are wearing masks and keeping our distance. People are more aware of washing hands and sanitizing. — Amy Shahan DeVincentis

• It doesn’t always have to be a political agenda. It proves that the majority of people following guidelines are benefiting in many ways health-wise. Financially and socially, people are struggling. — Amy Shahan DeVincentis

• But in the same breath, people will complain how people are slowing the progress by not wearing masks correctly or at all. — Laura Pugh

• Social distancing and the wearing of masks seem to work. — Pete Schonert

• There’s no money to be made with the flu, that’s why. — Willie Preacher

• Masks, far fewer gatherings of people, more hand-washing, and let’s be honest, school is reduced, so that’s helping. — John Smith

• So let’s just name it COVID instead, so we can pander to the Democratic Party. — Brady Allen

• Right, all a hoax. Those 2 1/2 million dead people are just faking it. — Charlie Harper