Flu cases are surging across the United States, with at least 5,000 people having died from the illness this year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been at least 11 million flu cases, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths as of December 27. Doctor visits for flu-like illnesses have reached their highest level in nearly 30 years, with 8.2% of outpatient visits nationwide being for flu-like symptoms.
A new subtype of influenza A, called H3N2, is driving this year's cases. Experts say this strain is known to cause tough flu seasons, especially for seniors, and is harder for the immune system to recognize. The CDC reported that 91.2% of subtyped influenza A specimens were found to be H3N2. Forty-five states are experiencing high to very high levels of flu activity, with only a few states experiencing low to moderate flu spread.
The surge in flu cases is likely to continue in the coming weeks, with health officials noting that the latest data does not yet reflect illnesses caused by holiday travel and gatherings. The CDC also reported that fewer people have received the flu vaccine this year, with about 130 million doses given.