Is the 2026 Flu Season Subsiding Already

As the 2025-2026 influenza season continues, recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate a significant decrease in flu activity nationwide.

The CDC's assessment framework classifies the current flu season as moderate across all age groups. Typically, flu seasons in the United States peak between December and February, sometimes extending into March or later.

According to the CDC's latest FluView report for the week ending January 10, 2026, the number of confirmed positive influenza tests dropped by approximately 31% compared to the previous week.

This decline marks the most significant drop observed in this season so far.

The flu test positivity rate dropped to approximately 24.7% for the week ending January 3, down from 32.9% the previous week. However, experts caution that this could partially reflect reduced healthcare visits during the holidays rather than an actual peak.

Influenza A(H3N2) viruses are the most frequently reported influenza viruses so far this season.

These data mark a shift from earlier reports, such as the week ending December 27, 2025, when activity was still increasing throughout the USA.

The CDC also reported on January 19, 2026, that about 130 million flu shots had been distributed to clinics and pharmacies this flu season. Furthermore, these healthcare providers continue to recommend and offer flu shot services.