The CDC’s latest FluView report shows a modest decline in flu activity, with the national influenza positivity rate dropping to 18.6% for the week ending January 10. However, the overall impact of the season remains significant, as flu-related deaths continued to rise and hospitals across the country reported sustained strain on capacity. Some health systems have even postponed elective procedures as emergency departments and inpatient units remain full.
Key takeaways from the CDC’s most recent data include:
- Pediatric flu deaths nearly doubled in one week, bringing the season total to 32, with 90% occurring in children who were not fully vaccinated.
- Flu-related provider visits and hospitalizations declined week over week but remain well above baseline levels, with more than 27,000 lab-confirmed hospitalizations reported.
- Influenza A (H3N2) continues to be the dominant strain nationwide.
- The CDC estimates this season has already resulted in 18 million illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations, and 9,300 deaths.
- Health officials continue to monitor activity closely, noting that flu cases often increase following the winter holidays.
Resources: Flu admissions dip: 5 notes
Weekly US Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 1, ending January 10, 2026