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2mo ago

Flu Season 2025 Reaches Highest Severity in 15 Years

The CDC reports 16,000 deaths and 370,000 hospitalizations, with children and vulnerable populations facing severe complications.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com
FILE – A sign for flu and covid vaccinations is displayed at a pharmacy store in Palatine, Ill., Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The flu season in the U.S. is getting worse but it’s too soon to tell how much holiday gatherings contributed to a likely spike in illnesses. New government data posted Friday, Jan. 5, 2024 for the previous week _ the holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s _ show 38 states with high or very high levels for respiratory illnesses with fever, cough and other symptoms. That’s up from 31 states the week before. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
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CDC map showing visits for respiratory illness for the week ending February 8.

Overview

  • The CDC estimates 29 million flu cases, 370,000 hospitalizations, and 16,000 deaths in the U.S. as of February 8, 2025.
  • This flu season is classified as 'high severity,' the first since 2017-2018, with severe outcomes across all age groups.
  • Vaccination rates have declined, with only 37% of children and 35% of adults vaccinated, potentially worsening the outbreak.
  • Children are experiencing severe complications, including neurological issues, while many adults face pneumonia and other infections.
  • Flu activity remains highest in 36 states, with only Hawaii, Montana, and Alaska reporting minimal levels.