Summary
The U.S. is experiencing a severe flu season with some initial signs of decline, but experts believe the season hasn't peaked yet. The most common flu virus this year is a new variant that differs from the strain in the current flu vaccines. The flu has led to millions of illnesses and thousands of deaths in the U.S. so far this season.
Key Facts
- Flu infections in the U.S. showed a small decline last week.
- The flu season is severe and may not have peaked yet.
- The H3N2 flu virus is the most reported this season.
- Over 91% of H3N2 infections involve a new variant not covered by this year's vaccine.
- 15 million flu cases and 180,000 hospitalizations have occurred this season.
- There have been about 7,400 flu-related deaths, including 17 children, reported.
- Health officials will no longer officially recommend flu vaccines for children; this is now advised to be a decision made with a doctor.
- Flu season usually worsens during winter along with COVID-19 and RSV infections.
