Originally published by our sister publication Infectious Disease Special Edition
The CDC estimates that 5,000 people have died from influenza so far in this 2025-2026 season, according to a new report released Jan. 5.
How Many Infections?
The agency also estimates that 11 million people have been infected with flu this season so far, and 120,000 have been hospitalized. (Likewise, New York state also reported a record-breaking weak for flu hospitalizations: 4,546 people hospitalized in the 7 days ending in Dec. 27.)
Influenza A(H3N2) continues to be the most frequently reported virus. The number of jurisdictions with high or very high activity has increased from 32 in the week ending Dec. 20 to 48 in the week ending Dec. 27. Hospitalization rates have also increased; the cumulative hospitalization rate now sits at 28.1 per 100,000 population, and the weekly hospitalization rate is now 31.3 per 100,000 residents. The mortality rate has also increased from 0.5% to 0.9%.
One additional pediatric death was reported this week, increasing this season’s number to nine children who have lost their lives to influenza.
Vaccinate and Prescribe Antivirals
The CDC continues to recommend influenza vaccination for all people 6 months of age and older. Antivirals should also be prescribed when indicated.
