Nearly 5 million Americans have fallen ill with flu this season, with tens of thousands hospitalized and nearly 2,000 deaths reported, the CDC says. Learn what the latest data shows, which states are seeing the biggest increases, who’s most at risk, and how to protect yourself this season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now estimates that nearly 5 million flu illnesses have occurred in the United States so far this season. According to the CDC’s weekly surveillance update for the period ending December 13, 2025, there have been roughly 4.6 million flu illnesses, about 49,000 hospitalizations, and approximately 1,900 deaths attributed to influenza this season to date. (CDC)
Flu activity has been climbing across much of the country over the past few weeks. The surge is not evenly distributed: several states are reporting moderate respiratory-illness activity while most others remain at low or very low levels. Major metropolitan areas, including New York City, are seeing some of the highest rates of flu-like illness, which has contributed to a notable uptick in outpatient visits for respiratory complaints. (ABC News)
What the numbers mean (and what they don’t)
It’s important to remember that CDC burden estimates are preliminary and based on surveillance models that account for underreporting. Not everyone who gets sick seeks medical care or receives a lab test for influenza, so the true number of infections is likely higher than confirmed case counts alone. The figures published in FluView are intended to give a realistic picture of the season’s scale rather than an exact headcount. (CDC)
Hospitalizations and deaths are the most serious indicators of burden. The current estimate of about 49,000 hospitalizations and nearly 1,900 deaths underscores how influenza can strain healthcare resources and pose a serious risk to certain groups—older adults, very young children, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions. If hospitalizations continue to trend upward, communities and healthcare providers will need to consider capacity and staffing plans. (CDC)
Which states are seeing higher activity?
The CDC’s weekly report flags a handful of states reporting moderate activity for respiratory illnesses, including Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Texas. All other states were classified as experiencing low or very low activity at the time of the report. Local patterns can shift quickly, especially around holidays and school terms, so state-level data are worth monitoring if you live in or travel to those areas. (CDC)
Why this season matters
After a couple of seasons with atypical patterns due to COVID-19 disruptions, this flu season is notable for how quickly activity rose in many places. Increased social mixing, waning population immunity from prior seasons, and varying vaccine uptake likely all play roles. Public-health experts often caution that even when overall numbers aren’t as extreme as a “pandemic” year, clusters of severe cases and hospital pressure can still occur, particularly in communities with low vaccination coverage. The CDC continues to emphasize vaccination and early antiviral treatment for high-risk individuals. (Contagion Live)
How effective are vaccines this season?
Vaccine effectiveness can vary from season to season depending on the match between the vaccine strains and circulating viruses. The CDC encourages everyone 6 months and older who hasn’t yet been vaccinated to get the flu shot, noting that vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization even when it doesn’t fully prevent infection. Public supply figures in earlier reports show substantial distribution of vaccine doses, but uptake remains uneven across age groups and communities. If you’re unsure whether you or a family member should get vaccinated, speak with your healthcare provider—especially for pregnant people, infants, and people with chronic conditions. (CDC)
Treatment: antivirals and when to use them
Prescription antiviral drugs can reduce the length and severity of flu if started early—ideally within 48 hours of symptom onset. The CDC recommends prompt antiviral treatment for people at higher risk of complications (young children, those 65 and older, pregnant people, and people with certain chronic diseases) and for anyone with severe or progressive illness. If you test positive for flu and fall into a high-risk category, contact a clinician promptly about antivirals. (CIDRAP)
Practical steps to protect yourself and others
Get vaccinated if you haven’t yet—vaccination is still the best tool to reduce severe outcomes. (CDC)
Practice good hygiene: frequent handwashing, staying home when sick, and wearing a mask in crowded healthcare settings can reduce spread.
Consider rapid testing if you develop respiratory symptoms—rapid tests can guide treatment decisions.
Seek care early if you’re in a high-risk group or symptoms worsen—antivirals are most effective when started early. (CDC)
FAQs
1. Has the CDC confirmed nearly 5 million flu illnesses this season?
Yes — the CDC’s surveillance estimate for the week ending December 13, 2025, places cumulative flu illnesses at about 4.6 million, which is commonly reported as “nearly 5 million.” These are modeled estimates accounting for underreporting. (CDC)
2. Are hospitalizations and deaths also rising?
The CDC estimates roughly 49,000 hospitalizations and 1,900 deaths so far this season, based on the same weekly report. These figures are preliminary and can be updated as more data come in. (CDC)
3. Which states have the most flu activity right now?
As of the latest CDC update, several states reported moderate levels of respiratory illness—examples include New Jersey, Texas, Maryland, and New York City among others—while most states were at low or very low activity. Local health departments provide the most current area-specific information. (CDC)
4. Should I get the flu shot if I’ve already had the flu this season?
Yes. Even after recovering from a flu infection, vaccination is recommended because it may protect against different strains and reduce the risk of reinfection or severe outcomes. Consult your healthcare provider for personal medical advice. (CDC)
5. When should I seek medical care or antivirals?
Seek care promptly if you are in a high-risk group, pregnant, have difficulty breathing, or experience worsening symptoms. Antiviral medications are most effective when given within 48 hours of symptom onset, but clinicians may still prescribe them later for severe cases. (CIDRAP)
Conclusion
The CDC’s latest surveillance snapshot — showing about 4.6 million flu illnesses, tens of thousands of hospitalizations, and nearly 2,000 deaths so far this season — is a reminder that influenza remains a serious, seasonal threat. Vaccination, early testing, and timely antiviral treatment for those at increased risk are the cornerstones of reducing severe outcomes. Keep an eye on local public-health updates, especially if you live in or plan to travel to states currently seeing higher activity. Staying informed and taking practical precautions can help protect you and your community during this busy respiratory-virus season. (CDC)
0 Comments