Overview
- CDC data through Dec. 20 estimate at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths this season, including eight pediatric deaths.
- Hospital admissions rose to more than 19,000 in the week ending Dec. 20, a roughly 91% week‑over‑week increase, as 32 jurisdictions reported high or very high activity.
- Genetic testing indicates influenza A(H3N2) subclade K is driving most U.S. cases, with a partial vaccine mismatch but continued protection against severe disease.
- Hotspots are straining systems, with New York recording a weekly record of more than 71,000 cases and Colorado reporting about 782 flu hospitalizations in the week ending Dec. 27.
- Vaccination coverage and distribution are down from last year at about 130 million doses, and officials urge shots for everyone 6 months and older plus prompt antivirals for eligible patients.