Nearly 8% of all outpatient clinic visits in the United States are currently linked to individuals seeking treatment for flu-like illness. This surge in flu-related consultations marks a significant rise in infection rates, with nearly one in three people tested returning positive results as of February 11, 2025. The current flu season could potentially be the most severe since the 2009-2010 outbreak, with 24 million Americans having contracted the flu so far, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.
Typically, the U.S. experiences between 9 million and 40 million flu cases annually. This season has seen a notable increase in infections, which had initially seemed to peak during the week of Christmas. Despite a decline in early January, flu activity has surged once more. Two specific strains, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza A(H3N2), account for nearly all recent human flu tests sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The adult flu vaccination rate has dropped to 44%, a decrease from last season's 48%. This decline may contribute to the increased infection rates. The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccination, recommending that everyone aged six months or older receive a flu vaccine to mitigate the spread and impact of the virus.
"As long as influenza (flu) viruses are circulating in your community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated against flu." – National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Every state in the U.S., except Arizona, Colorado, and Indiana, reports high levels of influenza A in wastewater. However, wastewater data does not provide definitive predictions for flu viral activity due to its inability to distinguish between human and bird flu signs. The CDC estimates approximately 13,000 flu-related deaths have occurred, though it does not officially track adult deaths. Pediatric fatalities have reached 57 this season, with 10 recorded in the final week of January.
The CDC acknowledges the challenges in determining whether this season's rates surpass those of past seasons, particularly the 2009-2010 benchmark. Complications arise from variations in data collection methods and evolving virus strains. Nonetheless, public health officials continue to urge vaccination as a key preventive measure.
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