The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a significant surge in influenza cases across 43 states, with declining vaccination rates exacerbating concerns about the flu season’s impact.
Is this the start of a new virus crisis?
At a Glance
- CDC reports 32 states and Washington, D.C. with “very high” flu activity, 11 states with “high” activity
- At least 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths this flu season
- 57 pediatric deaths reported, including 10 in the most recent week
- CDC recommends flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older
Flu Activity Reaches New Peak
The United States is currently experiencing its most intense flu season in at least 15 years, with the CDC reporting high or very high flu activity across 43 states. The percentage of doctor’s office visits for flu-like symptoms has surpassed any winter flu season since 2009-2010, indicating the severity of the current outbreak.
According to the CDC, “Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated and continues to increase across the country,” with the agency estimating that “influenza infections are growing or likely growing in 15 states.” This surge in cases has led to school closures in some states and put a strain on healthcare facilities.
Despite the CDC’s recommendation for everyone aged 6 months and older to get vaccinated, there has been a concerning drop in vaccination rates. Approximately 44% of adults and 45% of children have received flu shots this winter, which is lower than in previous years. They say that decline in vaccination rates could be contributing to the severity of the current flu season.
But if that’s true, then they should consider why nobody trusts them anymore. Do they remember what happened in 2020 and beyond?
Health officials are urging the public to take preventative measures, including getting vaccinated, washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the face, and staying away from sick individuals.
But it’s up to you to decide whether you think that advice is reliable.
Impact on States and Healthcare System
The flu’s impact has been particularly severe in certain regions. The South, Southwest, and western states are experiencing the most intense flu activity. Vermont is the only state reported to have “inadequate data” on flu activity, according to the CDC.
The healthcare system is feeling the strain of this severe flu season. With at least 310,000 hospitalizations reported so far, medical facilities are working to manage the influx of patients while also dealing with ongoing cases of COVID-19 and RSV, although these appear to be declining.
While the current flu season is primarily driven by Type A H1N1 and Type A H3N2 strains, health officials are also closely monitoring the bird flu strain Type A H5N1. Although no new H5N1 avian influenza cases have been reported in humans recently, and no human-to-human transmission has been observed in the U.S., the situation remains under surveillance.
The impact of avian influenza has extended beyond human health concerns, affecting the poultry industry and contributing to rising egg prices. As of December 2024, egg prices had reached $4.15, partly due to the culling of millions of chickens in response to bird flu outbreaks.
