The United States is experiencing its most severe flu season in over a decade, with influenza activity reaching its highest levels since 2009, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As winter continues, flu infections are increasing across the country, with 12 states reporting “very high” flu activity and many others seeing rising case numbers.
The latest CDC Weekly US Influenza Surveillance Report indicates that 7.8% of all healthcare visits were for respiratory illnesses, the highest rate recorded since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Other key flu statistics are also increasing:
- 31.6% of flu tests are coming back positive.
- 48,661 patients were admitted to hospitals with flu-related complications this week.
- 2% of reported deaths were attributed to influenza.
Flu infections are either growing or likely growing in 15 states, with Kentucky seeing a 92.45% increase in its probability of an influenza epidemic. Some regions, particularly those with lower vaccination rates, have been hit harder than others.
The 12 states experiencing “very high” flu levels include:
- Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, South Carolina, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maine.
Experts have noted a significant impact on children, particularly in schools and childcare centers. In Kentucky alone, more than 2,900 children tested positive in a single week.
Despite the severity of this flu season, vaccination rates remain low. According to the CDC:
- Less than 30% of children in some areas, such as Jefferson County, Kentucky, received a flu shot this year.
- Overall influenza vaccination rates for children are at their lowest level in six years.
- Fewer than half of all Americans have been vaccinated against the flu in 2025.
Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches and fatigue
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
The flu spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Experts recommend frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, and staying home when sick to reduce the spread.
While flu season typically lasts until May, experts say it isn’t too late to get vaccinated. The flu shot can reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization, and doctors continue to encourage immunization to help slow the virus’s spread.
With input from USA Today and the New York Times.
