Overview
- CDC data show activity decreased or stabilized for a second straight week, yet hospitalization rates remain near recent records after a Week 52 peak of 12.6 per 100,000 and a latest weekly rate of 5.6.
- Roughly 91% of genetically characterized H3N2 samples belong to subclade K, indicating a highly dominant lineage this season.
- Jurisdictions reporting high or very high flu activity fell from 44 to 36, signaling some regional easing.
- The CDC estimates about 18 million illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations and 9,300 deaths so far this season.
- Children and adults 65+ are most affected, with 32 pediatric deaths reported and most known cases not fully vaccinated, while vaccines still reduce severe outcomes.