As the CDC projects a moderate influenza season for 2025–26, U.S. hospitals continue to navigate multiple challenges — from changing vaccine guidance to disruptions in hospital-at-home and telehealth services, along with a growing measles outbreak.
The 2024–25 flu season was one of the most severe in over a decade, with an estimated 47 million illnesses and 610,000 hospitalizations, according to the CDC. While similar hospitalization levels are expected this year, the agency predicts an overall decline in severity, noting that consecutive high-severity seasons have not occurred since tracking began in 2010.
Vaccine Guidance Shifts
The CDC has adjusted its COVID-19 vaccination guidance, now recommending shared clinical decision-making rather than a universal vaccination recommendation. Meanwhile, some states — including Virginia and Florida — are considering or have enacted changes to vaccine eligibility or school-based requirements. Experts warn that lower vaccination rates could intensify respiratory illness impact this winter.
Hospital-at-Home and Telehealth Challenges
Ongoing federal funding delays have paused reimbursement for certain hospital-at-home and telehealth programs, forcing some hospitals to discharge or transfer patients back into traditional care settings. According to Politico’s Oct. 14 report, more than 330 hospitals operate hospital-at-home programs serving thousands of patients nationwide. Without resumed funding, hospitals face renewed strain on capacity heading into peak flu season.
Rising Measles Cases Nationwide
The CDC reports that, as of October 7, 42 states have confirmed 1,563 measles cases — the highest since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. National vaccination rates for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) among kindergartners have fallen to 92.5%, while exemptions continue to rise.