If you’re feeling sick but dismissing it as “just a cold,” it might be time to reconsider: This year’s flu season is more intense than ever, making it the worst outbreak in at least 15 years.
Since the flu season started in October, there have been at least 24 million cases, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths, including 57 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The percentage of doctor visits for flu-like symptoms has also surpassed previous peak levels, making this the most severe flu season since 2009-2010. As cases continue to rise, health experts have urged people to take preventive measures, especially with flu season potentially extending into the spring.
To help you stay informed, we took a closer look at the states experiencing the most significant spikes and whether getting your flu shot is still worthwhile.
Where are flu cases the worst?
According to the CDC, flu season is hitting hard, with at least 43 states and Washington, D.C., reporting “very high” or “high” levels of flu-like illness.
It’s so bad that schools in at least 10 states — including Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, and Texas — have had to temporarily shut down.
New York City is getting slammed in particular, with over 51,000 flu cases reported during the week ending on Jan. 25. Hospitalizations are rising, too: About 3,000 people were admitted with the flu during that same time period, an 11 percent jump from the week before. Those numbers held largely steady during the following week — infections and hospitalizations both went up by 1 percent during the week ending Feb. 1.
Basically, if it feels like everyone around you is sick right now, you’re not imagining it.
Why are flu cases spiking?
Flu cases are surging right now due to a combination of factors. Although there was an early uptick in October and November, we’re now in the thick of peak flu season, which typically runs from December to February.
One major factor is weakened immunity after years of reduced flu exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lower vaccination rates this year, especially among children, have led to fewer people being protected, allowing the virus to spread more quickly. On top of that, colder weather is pushing people indoors, creating ideal conditions for flu transmission in places like offices.
Another potential contributor is “viral interference,” a phenomenon where one virus can crowd out others. Epidemiologist Aubree Gordon told NPR that there’s a lot of influenza circulating right now, which may generate nonspecific immunity that provides some protection against other respiratory infections, like SARS-CoV-2.
But even with these natural defenses at play, the broader response to public health challenges has been hindered by a lack of federal guidance. The pause on communications from health agencies under President Trump has made it difficult for doctors to coordinate effectively across the country. “When we can’t find the information combating any type of public health issue, whether it’s influenza or an emerging pandemic, we’re not able to communicate this information to the general public,” Zachary Rubin, a pediatric infectious-disease physician, told The Washington Post. “It’s not proper health communication that’s going on.”
What are some common flu symptoms?
According to the CDC, flu symptoms can include:
- Fever or a feeling chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults
Distinguishing these symptoms from those of other viruses, like the common cold, can be tricky, though. The key difference is that the flu tends to be more severe and strikes suddenly, while a cold usually develops more gradually.
Is it too late to get a flu shot?
Flu season can linger well into May, so if you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, now’s the time — and health officials are strongly encouraging it. The vaccine, recommended for everyone six months and older, remains the most effective way to lower the risk of severe illness, especially for young children, seniors, and those with underlying health conditions.
“The flu vaccine still needs improvement, but it’s the best tool we have,” said Mark J. Mulligan, chief of infectious disease and director of the vaccine center at NYU Langone Health, speaking with The Washington Post.
Despite the surge in cases, many are still dragging their feet when it comes to vaccination. Only 44 percent of adults have received their flu shot this season (the same as last year), while the vaccination rate for children has dropped to about 45 percent, down from the usual 50 percent.
Looking for more information about this important shot or wondering where to get one? Learn more right here.
