Unprecedented Flu Surge Grips the US, Reaching Levels Not Seen Since 1997
The United States is currently experiencing a widespread and severe influenza outbreak, impacting 45 states and driving medical consultations to their highest levels in nearly three decades. The surge, which began gaining momentum in late December 2025, is placing significant strain on the nation’s healthcare system.
According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and reported by NBC News, 8.2% of all outpatient visits during the week ending December 27 were attributed to influenza-like illnesses – the highest percentage recorded since 1997. The CDC estimates that over 11 million Americans have contracted the flu this season, leading to 120,000 hospitalizations and at least 5,000 deaths, including the tragic loss of nine children.
This year’s outbreak is particularly concerning in light of the previous flu season, which saw a record 289 pediatric deaths, the highest number since the CDC began tracking this data. Health officials are warning that the spread of the virus could accelerate in the coming weeks, fueled by increased travel and gatherings associated with the holiday season.
Currently, 45 states are reporting high or very high levels of flu activity. These include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, and West Virginia are experiencing low or moderate activity, while data from Nevada remains insufficient.
The CDC’s latest figures reveal more than 11 million influenza cases, 120,000 hospitalizations, and at least 5,000 deaths for the 2025-2026 flu season. As NBC News reported, citing CDC epidemiologist Krista Kniss, “the full impact of holiday gatherings and travel on the spread of flu cannot yet be estimated,” suggesting that case numbers could climb further as post-holiday activity is reflected in the data.
The current increase is attributed to the widespread circulation of both influenza A and B viruses, compounded by the presence of other respiratory illnesses, including SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Common symptoms reported this year include fever, sore throat, severe fatigue, and muscle aches.
Hospitals across the country are feeling the strain. A director of emergency medical services at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Dr. Nick Cozzi, told NBC News that the hospital is “admitting patients at a higher rate than usual, many with respiratory distress and low oxygen levels.” Similarly, in Baltimore, the director of pediatric otolaryngology at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, Emily Boss, confirmed that flu-related hospital admissions doubled in the last two weeks of December compared to the preceding period.
The CDC emphasizes that the 2025-2026 flu season is already matching or exceeding the severity of the worst flu seasons in the last thirty years. Hospitalization and death rates are mirroring those seen during particularly severe outbreaks, while the proportion of medical consultations related to the flu is at a level not observed since 1997.
The previous season’s record of 289 pediatric deaths is a stark reminder of the flu’s potential severity, even surpassing the number of pediatric deaths recorded during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. The CDC has not yet determined whether the peak of the current outbreak has been reached or if conditions will worsen in the coming weeks.
Despite ongoing discussions regarding potential adjustments to childhood vaccination schedules following a review by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the CDC continues to recommend annual flu immunization for all individuals six months of age and older. Dr. Sean O’Leary, chairman of the Committee on Infectious Diseases of the American Academy of Pediatrics, expressed concern to NBC News about potentially relaxing immunization recommendations, particularly given the record number of child deaths this season.
The CDC and hospitals are strongly emphasizing preventative measures, including vaccination, frequent hand washing, and prompt medical attention for those experiencing flu symptoms, especially young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions. The surge in cases and hospitalizations is creating capacity challenges for healthcare facilities, with institutions like Rush University Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Children’s Center reporting high occupancy rates and increased demand for emergency care. The CDC also cautions that the simultaneous circulation of influenza and other respiratory viruses can complicate both diagnosis and treatment.
Officials anticipate that flu cases may continue to rise in January as the effects of holiday travel and gatherings become more apparent in the data. The CDC is closely monitoring the evolution of the season and will update its recommendations based on viral behavior and hospital capacity. For the latest information on the flu, vaccination, and preventative measures, the CDC maintains a weekly report available to the public.
