Has Flu Season Peaked in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) latest FluView report, the current flu season in the United States may be winding down.

As of January 12, 2024, the CDC stated that a week of decreased data has been noted after several weeks of increased key flu indicators. 

Nationwide, 5.7% of patient visits reported through ILINet during week #1 of 2024 were due to respiratory illness that included fever plus a cough or sore throat. This has decreased compared to Week #52 of 2023.

Based on mortality surveillance data available on January 11, 2024, 1.3% of the deaths during the week ending January 6, 2024 (Week #1) were due to influenza. This percentage increased (≥ 0.1 percentage point change) compared to Week #52.

However, seasonal influenza activity remains elevated in most parts of the country.

And the CDC will continue monitoring the data for an indication of a second period of increased influenza activity that often occurs after the winter holidays.

Should there be a rekindling of influenza activity, ample flu shots should be available at most pharmacies in the U.S. The CDC says vaccination now can still provide benefits this flu season.

The CDC reported that over 155 million influenza vaccines had been distributed last year.