The US winter flu season is at its peak, with the number of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms reaching a 15-year high. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the percentage of visitors seeking medical attention for flu-like symptoms was significantly higher than any previous winter flu season since 2009-2010.
While other viral infections such as COVID-19 and RSV have declined, the flu remains a major concern. At least 24 million flu illnesses have been reported so far this season, resulting in 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths, including 57 children.
The CDC estimates that 43 states have reported high or very high flu activity, with the South, Southwest, and western states being the most affected. However, some areas, such as Rochester, New York, are experiencing intense flu seasons but not necessarily worse than in previous years.
Health officials recommend getting an annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with 44% of adults having received a flu shot this winter. However, coverage among children is significantly lower, at around 45%. COVID-19 vaccination rates are also concerning, with only 23% of US adults up to date on their vaccinations as of late January.
The CDC has not yet reported its estimates of how well this season’s flu vaccine is working. Two strains of seasonal flu are currently causing most illnesses: Type A H1N1 and Type A H3N2. Health officials warn that germs can spread through touching one’s eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces and people who are sick.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/11/health/intense-flu-season/index.html