CDC reports increasing flu spread nationwide
Flu activity is rising across the United States, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most states are still reporting low or very low levels of respiratory illness, several are already seeing moderate activity as the winter season approaches.
New York City currently shows some of the highest levels of flu-like illness in the country. States reporting moderate activity include Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Texas.
Millions of illnesses recorded so far this season
The CDC estimates that the current flu season has already caused at least 4.6 million illnesses nationwide. Hospitalizations have reached approximately 49,000, and at least 1,900 flu-related deaths have been reported so far.
Health officials warn that these numbers are likely to increase as colder weather, indoor gatherings, and holiday travel create ideal conditions for viral spread.
New flu variant driving most infections
Laboratory data suggest that the majority of cases are linked to a newly identified flu variant known as subclade K. Of more than 900 samples analyzed by the CDC, about 90% were identified as influenza A(H3N2). Among those that underwent further genetic testing, nearly 90% belonged to the subclade K strain.
The CDC notes that mutations in this variant create a partial mismatch with this season’s flu vaccine. Despite this, experts stress that vaccination remains highly effective at preventing severe illness.
Vaccination still critical despite mismatch
Epidemiologists emphasize that even with reduced strain matching, the flu shot significantly lowers the risk of hospitalization and death. Experts point out that protection against severe outcomes remains strong, especially for vulnerable populations.
Pediatric flu deaths are already being reported this season, with three confirmed so far. Last season saw 288 child deaths from flu, matching levels recorded during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. About 90% of children who died last season were not vaccinated.
Flu shots recommended as holiday season begins
Flu vaccination rates among children have declined roughly 10 percentage points compared to pre-pandemic levels, with only about 40% vaccinated so far this season. Nationwide, approximately 140 million flu vaccine doses have been distributed, up from 128 million last year.
The CDC continues to recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone aged six months and older. Health experts say it is not too late to get vaccinated and urge families to take precautions as flu activity is expected to accelerate during the holiday period.