Overview
- CDC data through Dec. 20 estimates at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths so far this season.
- More than 19,000 people were hospitalized in the latest reported week, roughly double the prior week as H3N2 subclade K dominates circulation.
- High or very high influenza-like illness is now reported in roughly 29 to 32 jurisdictions, with Colorado, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York and South Carolina among the hardest hit.
- New York recorded about 71,000 cases in a single week, its highest ever, and the national pediatric death toll has reached eight.
- Hospitals in multiple states report growing strain, and officials urge vaccination, early antiviral treatment, masking in high-risk settings and staying home when sick.