CDC: U.S. flu activity remains elevated, with millions sick and pediatric severity high
The CDC reports that influenza activity is still elevated nationally, with the season classified as moderate overall but high severity among children. Agency estimates put the burden in the tens of millions of illnesses and hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations so far this season, and officials say vaccination and early antiviral treatment remain key tools.
Influenza activity remains elevated across the United States as the 2025–26 season continues, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In its weekly surveillance update covering Week 2, ending January 17, 2026, the CDC said activity has decreased or remained stable for consecutive weeks, but officials cautioned that trends can shift after the winter holidays and that a second wave is possible.
CDC estimates a heavy seasonal burden
The CDC’s preliminary in-season burden estimates indicate at least 19 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths from flu so far this season. These estimates reflect national surveillance signals and are subject to revision as additional data arrive, but they highlight sustained pressure on clinics and hospitals during the winter respiratory-virus period.
Children hit hardest in severity assessment
Using its in-season severity assessment framework, the CDC classified the season as moderate overall across all ages while rating pediatric severity as high. The agency noted that among reported pediatric deaths with known vaccination status, about 90% occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated against influenza, underscoring concerns about preventable severe outcomes.
Dominant virus and surveillance signals
CDC surveillance shows influenza A(H3N2) viruses have been the most frequently reported so far this season. Hospitalization surveillance through FluSurv-NET recorded thousands of lab-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations since October 1, 2025, and the CDC continues to track changes in weekly rates as the season progresses.
Vaccination and treatment guidance
Public health officials continue to recommend annual flu vaccination for people aged six months and older, and emphasize that vaccination can reduce the risk of severe disease and complications. The CDC also points to prescription antiviral medications that can treat flu illness; these are most effective when started early, and they are especially important for people at higher risk of complications.
Looking ahead to late January
Forecasting data published by the CDC suggests uncertainty about whether flu hospital admissions will remain stable or change in coming weeks, and officials say trends can be affected by shifting healthcare-seeking behavior and reporting patterns. With winter still underway, the agency advises people to stay current on prevention steps, watch for symptoms, and seek care promptly if they are in a high-risk group or become severely ill.