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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that flu-like illness activity in the United States has reached its highest level on record. Approximately 8% of outpatient visits nationwide are now classified as flu-like illness, surpassing any levels seen since 1997. This category includes patients exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat.
According to the CDC, children and young adults are the primary drivers of this increase, with around 35% of outpatient visits involving individuals under 24 years old. Children under age five account for about 20% of these visits. The CDC estimates that there have been at least 120,000 flu-related hospitalizations this season, marking a 48% increase from the previous week. Additionally, there have been approximately 11 million flu illnesses and 5,000 deaths, including at least nine pediatric deaths.
Most cases this season are linked to a new flu strain known as subclade K, a variant of the H3N2 influenza A virus. This strain has been circulating since the summer and was a significant factor in flu spikes in countries like Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Health experts warn that flu activity is expected to continue rising in the coming weeks, and the season's peak has likely not yet been reached.
Amid the surge, the CDC continues to recommend annual flu vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older, with few exceptions. Despite the widespread availability of the flu vaccine, vaccination rates remain relatively unchanged, with around 42% of both adults and children vaccinated. Health officials also emphasize the importance of good hand hygiene and staying home when sick to help slow the spread of the virus.