The US is experiencing peak flu season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC reports that seasonal influenza activity remains elevated and continues to increase across the country.
Case counts vary by state, with each week a map of influenza activity is released by the CDC. The current map reflects data from February 8, 2025.
The highest flu activity can be found in states such as New York City, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Maryland, followed closely by other southern states like Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, and South Carolina.
The northern states are now experiencing peak flu activity, with states like Washington D.C., North Carolina, Georgia, and Colorado also reporting high levels of infection.
Experts attribute the surge in flu cases to a combination of factors, including weather patterns, travel habits, and population density. Anita Patel, vice president of Pharmacy Health Services at Walgreens, explained that viruses spread better when it gets colder and drier, and people spend more time indoors.
“Densely populated states tend to have higher transmission rates due to social distancing challenges and increased indoor activity,” she said.
Flu vaccination rates are also lower nationwide, with the CDC data showing outpatient reported illness increasing as vaccine rates decrease. The flu vaccine can prevent illness but also reduce symptom severity if you do get sick.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/flu-cases-highest-us-states-see-map