Prime Highlights:
The flu has led to school closures in some areas, including Godley Independent School District in Texas, where hundreds of students and staff were affected.
CDC estimates show 24 million flu illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths, including at least 57 child fatalities.
Key Background:
The United States is currently experiencing its most severe flu season in 15 years, with the flu epidemic reaching a peak not seen since the 2009-2010 winter. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu-like symptoms accounted for a notably high percentage of doctor’s office visits last week, surpassing previous seasonal peaks.
While other viral infections can mimic flu symptoms, the flu remains the dominant concern, with COVID-19 declining in prevalence and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) also waning across the country. The flu’s intensity has led to widespread disruptions, including school closures in certain regions. For example, the Godley Independent School District near Fort Worth, Texas, closed for three days last week after 650 students and 60 staff members were absent due to flu and strep throat cases.
The CDC estimates that the current flu season has already resulted in at least 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths, including 57 children. Flu activity has been particularly high in the South, Southwest, and Western states, with 43 states reporting significant levels of flu spread.
Despite the widespread flu, other respiratory illnesses remain a concern. Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine expert at the University of Rochester Medical Center, noted that although flu cases are numerous, there has also been a surprising number of infants diagnosed with COVID-19, in addition to RSV. Health authorities continue to recommend that all individuals aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccination to reduce the risk of severe illness and transmission. As flu season typically peaks in February, it is expected that the intensity may persist for several weeks.
