Influenza cases are on the rise across the United States, with certain states experiencing a more significant impact than others. Data released on Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a nationwide hospitalization rate increase of 14.3%, with over 9,900 individuals admitted due to the flu.
So far this season, two pediatric deaths linked to the influenza virus have been reported, raising the total to three flu-related deaths among children since the start of the 2025-2026 season. The most commonly identified strain has been Influenza A (H3N2), which continues to show a strong presence.
Particularly high flu activity has been noted in states such as New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Louisiana, and Colorado, while elevated hospital visits for flu symptoms have also been observed in Georgia, New Mexico, Idaho, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
Experts are drawing attention to a new variant known as subclade K, labeled as the “super flu.” Dr. Andrew Pekosz from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health noted that this strain is spreading widely wherever influenza is present. Emerged during the summer, subclade K has quickly made its way through several countries, including Japan, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The World Health Organization has confirmed that this new variant is a mutation of the H3N2 strain.
The symptoms of the influenza A and its subclade K variant are generally similar and often more severe than those associated with influenza B. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, body aches, headaches, fatigue, and in some rare cases, vomiting or diarrhea.
As flu season progresses, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and consider vaccinations to mitigate the spread and impact of this potentially severe illness. The ongoing conversation around influenza highlights the importance of public health measures and personal responsibility during these challenging months.