Just as flu activity shows early signs of leveling off in parts of the country, federal health officials are warning Virginians not to let their guard down.
New CDC data indicates a slight decline in flu-related doctor visits and a small drop in the number of states reporting high flu activity. However, experts stress that this does not mean the worst is over. In fact, multiple indicators suggest this flu season could continue to intensify in the weeks ahead.
Health officials point out that hospitalizations and flu-related deaths are still rising — a key signal that the virus is continuing to spread aggressively, even as some surface metrics dip. Last winter’s flu season was one of the most severe in recent memory, and current data shows this season is on track to surpass it.
A major concern is the dominant flu strain circulating this year: Influenza A (H3N2). This strain has historically led to higher hospitalization and death rates, particularly among older adults. Even more troubling, over 90% of the H3N2 cases tested so far involve a newer variant that differs from the strain used in this year’s flu vaccine.
Nationally, the CDC estimates at least 15 million flu illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and more than 7,400 deaths so far this season — including at least 17 pediatric deaths. Last season saw a record number of child flu deaths, and health advocates fear those numbers could climb again.
Virginia is not alone. While the number of states reporting high flu activity dipped slightly last week, 44 states remain at elevated levels, and flu-related hospital admissions continue to increase.
Experts also caution that flu trends can be misleading around the holidays. School closures, travel, and delayed medical visits often distort weekly data. Some seasons also produce a second surge later in winter — something health officials are actively watching for now.
Flu isn’t the only virus adding pressure to hospitals. COVID-19 and RSV hospitalizations have also risen in recent weeks, creating a triple-threat respiratory season that is straining healthcare systems across the region.
Bottom line: health officials say Virginia residents should expect more flu activity ahead, not less — and warn that this winter’s flu season is far from finished.