The United States has experienced a notable increase in influenza cases throughout December 2024, following the most severe flu season since 2018. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this surge raises concerns about the potential impact on public health as the season progresses.
By December 20, 2024, an estimated 7.5 million influenza cases had been reported, along with 81,000 hospitalizations. This marked a significant 25% increase in cases compared to the previous week. Currently, 32 states are reporting a “high or very high” number of flu-related illnesses. Epidemiologist Jennifer Nuzzo from Brown University noted that the rapid rise in cases can strain healthcare resources, making it difficult for hospitals to manage the influx of patients.
The CDC’s latest data indicates that over 3,100 people died from influenza in the year leading up to August 2025. This includes a troubling figure of 279 pediatric deaths, the highest recorded during a seasonal influenza epidemic. The current flu season has also seen the emergence of a new variant, known as subclade K, contributing to heightened influenza activity, particularly in Europe during December.
During a time when vaccination is crucial, there may be hesitance among the public. The CDC, led by health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has scaled back its campaign to encourage flu vaccinations. As of early December, approximately 130 million flu vaccines had been distributed, which is 13 million fewer than the same time last year. Nuzzo expressed concern over the lack of a robust vaccination strategy, stating, “It’s completely incredulous to me that after experiencing the worst flu season for kids on record, we could head into this flu season with anything but a robust plan to encourage people to get vaccinated.”
Despite concerns about vaccine efficacy against the new variant, Nuzzo reassured the public that vaccination still provides important protection. “It may protect you less, but it’s likely still going to give you some important protection,” she stated. Additionally, residents may not be aware that at-home flu tests are available at pharmacies, which can facilitate early treatment if individuals test positive.
With the flu season showing signs of intensity, public health officials are urging individuals, particularly vulnerable populations such as young children and older adults, to consider vaccination as a preventive measure. As the situation develops, the CDC will continue to monitor flu activity and provide updates on the public health response.
