"We see the percentage of outpatients' visits for influenza-like illnesses (proven influenza cases and not tested but similar cases) in 2025 and the beginning of 2026, compared to the last few years. The current outbreak is represented by a dark red line that is higher than in previous years and is expected to continue rising with the start of school this week."
"This season, the vaccination rate is very low. Dr. Shafir mentioned: "Usually, about 50 to 60 percent of the eligible population is vaccinated, but this year, only 42 percent of the eligible population has received the flu vaccine." It is the end of the school break, with students getting back to school this week, which will probably spread the virus widely nationwide."
A steep rise in influenza A has produced an early, intense flu season with at least 11,000,000 cases, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths in the U.S. Outpatient visits for influenza-like illness exceed recent years and are expected to rise further with school reopening. Low vaccination coverage, only 42% of eligible people vaccinated, contributes to increased transmission compared with typical 50–60% rates. Close contact as schools resume and increased gatherings further facilitate spread. People developing symptoms are advised to use over-the-counter rapid tests that detect influenza, COVID-19, and RSV to guide care. Even with reduced vaccine effectiveness this season, vaccination continues to provide protection against severe illness.
Read at Psychology Today
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