130 Million Flu Shots Distributed to Clinics and Pharmacies in the USA

The Walgreens Respiratory Index recently reported that the United States has an overall Acute Respiratory Illness (ARI) score of 6.01 out of a possible 10.

This national score suggests that many pharmacies are seeing an increase in patients seeking medications and flu shots as seasonal influenza activity continues to increase across the U.S.

As of December 28, 2025, the states with the highest ARI scores include Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, and Idaho.

Separately, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced last week (#50) that prescription antiviral drugs for the flu can effectively treat flu illness. These medications should be started as soon as possible and are particularly important for patients at higher risk for complications related to the flu.

The CDC also recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older who has not yet received a vaccine this season get an annual influenza vaccine.

About 130 million doses of various influenza vaccines have been distributed to pharmacies and clinics in preparation for the peak of the flu season in early 2026.