Current Flu Season Shows Significant Activity, CDC Reports

The flu season is currently experiencing a surge in cases across the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting high or very high levels of illness in 40 states as of early January 2025. This uptick in flu activity follows the holiday period, a time when many individuals may have been more susceptible to infections.

Health officials have indicated that various viruses are circulating, leading to flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. Among these, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are notable contributors. However, recent CDC data suggests that influenza cases are on the rise and are currently outpacing other respiratory viruses.

According to Carrie Reed from the CDC, multiple strains of the seasonal flu are contributing to the increase in cases, with no single strain dominating the current outbreak. Hospitals, particularly pediatric facilities, have been managing a high volume of cases, especially with RSV affecting children since November. Dr. Jason Newland from Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, emphasized that while RSV has been prevalent, influenza cases are now significantly increasing.

The CDC tracks flu activity through various indicators, including the percentage of doctor's office visits attributed to flu-like symptoms. Recently, this figure has reached levels comparable to the peak of last winter's respiratory season, suggesting a serious flu season is underway. Regions experiencing the highest rates of flu illness include the South, Southwest, and parts of the western U.S., while the northern Great Plains and New England are seeing fewer cases.

So far this flu season, the CDC estimates more than 5.3 million flu illnesses, approximately 63,000 hospitalizations, and around 2,700 deaths, including at least 11 pediatric fatalities. While it remains uncertain whether this winter's flu season will surpass previous ones in severity, early indicators suggest it is within the expected range, particularly for children.

To mitigate the risk of contracting seasonal illnesses, U.S. health authorities continue to recommend that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccination, noting that it is still not too late to get vaccinated. Additional protective measures include avoiding contact with the face, practicing good hand hygiene, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and steering clear of close contact with sick individuals.

In addition to flu, the CDC is monitoring other viral outbreaks, including norovirus, which is known for causing gastrointestinal illness. The agency reported 91 outbreaks of norovirus in early December. Furthermore, attention is being given to the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, which has shown sporadic cases in humans; however, the overall risk to the public remains low.

Health officials stress that most human cases of H5N1 have been linked to direct contact with infected animals, and there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission.