Seasonal influenza viruses are experiencing a rare surge in cases this winter, coinciding with rising concerns over bird flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that outpatient visit percentages related to influenza-like illnesses (ILI) have increased to about 6.95 percent, surpassing the typical peak of around 7 percent.
In previous years, ILI visits had peaked at the end of December, but this year’s data shows a reversal in trend with cases surging again in week three. This unusual pattern is not seen in most seasons and poses concerns for public health officials. While some flu seasons have experienced multiple peaks, such as the 2019-2020 season which saw three peaks, the current scenario is notable for its intensity and rarity.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted influenza activity in previous years, leading to a near-total absence of flu cases in the 2020-2021 season. This winter’s surge in ILI visits has raised questions about the potential impact of bird flu on public health, particularly as egg prices continue to rise due to concerns over H5N1 bird flu.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/health/2025/02/sick-right-now-flu-is-resurging-to-yet-a-higher-peak-this-season