Flu season is here again.
And so far, about seven U.S. states are seeing high levels of illness.
As noted by the Associated Press, “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posted new flu data on Friday, showing very high activity last week in Louisiana, and high activity in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, New Mexico and South Carolina. It was also high in the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, the U.S. territory where health officials declared an influenza epidemic earlier this month.”
Also, while the flu shot is expected to work well this year, “an estimated 12,000 people have been hospitalized, and 740 have died. Flu has been confirmed as the cause of death in 3 children. The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older be vaccinated against flu each year and emphasizes that antiviral drugs should be initiated as soon as possible after infection—particularly for high-risk patients.”
While that’s not comforting to hear, it could elevate the need for cleanliness and other medical supplies from companies such as:
Clorox Co. (CLX)
Since early October, shares of CLX have run from about $115 to $141.77. From here, the stock could test higher highs, if flu season gets worse. According to MarketingDive.com, “Recent consumer research by the brand found that 82% of Americans believe cleanliness is required for a clear head and 68% believe it’s needed for a fresh outlook.”
Church & Dwight (CHD)
Church & Dwight (CHD) has been ticking higher, as well. Since the start of November, the stock ran from about $82 to $95. From here, we’d like to see it test $100 near term. All on demand for its cleaning products, too. Helping, CHD historically runs higher at this time of year.
CVS Health (CVS)
CVS Health could also see further upside on flu medication and flu shot demand. Right now, we know that more than two-thirds of Americans plan to get a flu shot this year. Plus, depending on the severity of the flu season, CVS could see big demand for flu products.
