Key Highlights
- The flu season is experiencing a significant upsurge with illnesses doubling from last year.
- Newly identified subclade K of A(H3N2) has caused much of the activity.
- Federal health agencies report increased hospitalizations and deaths due to the flu.
Flu Season Intensifies as Hospitalizations Surge
Nationwide, the flu season is on a major upswing with cases more than doubling from last year. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), key indicators such as hospitalization rates, deaths, and influenza-positive lab tests have all seen an increase this season.
New Strain Fuels Flu Activity
Of particular concern is a new strain of influenza A(H3N2) known as subclade K. Of the 275 viruses collected since September 28, 2025, an astounding 89.5% belonged to this variant, according to CDC reports. Dr.
James McDonald, New York’s health commissioner, emphasized that the surge driven by this strain is being colloquially referred to as the “super flu.”
“The activity thus far is being dominated by subclade K of A(H3N2),” stated Dr. McDonald. “This variant has shown a significant impact on our healthcare systems and communities.”
Rising Hospitalizations and Deaths
The surge in flu cases has led to increased hospital admissions. In one week, the number of patients admitted with influenza nearly doubled from around 10,000 to almost 20,000. The CDC also reported five new pediatric deaths associated with the flu over this period, bringing the total for the current season to eight.
The federal health agency estimates that there have been at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations, and 3,100 deaths from the flu so far in the 2025-26 season.
This marks a dramatic rise compared to last year when similar numbers stood at 3.1 million illnesses, 37,000 hospitalizations, and 1,500 deaths.
Dr. McDonald highlighted that influenza activity is expected to continue for several more weeks. “The peak of flu season has yet to arrive,” he said. “This underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and preventive measures.”
Regional Impact and Recommendations
The CDC data showed that much of the activity was concentrated in certain regions, including New York, Colorado, South Carolina, Louisiana, New Mexico, Idaho, Michigan, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. In New York alone, 71,123 total cases were recorded from December 14 to December 20, marking a 38% increase from the previous week.
The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. “The vaccine remains the best defense against the flu,” stated Dr. McDonald. “It’s crucial for individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
As the flu season continues, public health officials are urging citizens to stay informed about local flu activity levels and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.