The particularly harsh 2024-2025 flu season is now in its seventh week of declining cases, according to fresh Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates. Even so, activity has remained high for 18 weeks and counting, and the season is expected to linger on for several more weeks, says CDC. Pediatric deaths now number 168 for the season. The percentage of outpatient visits has been highest among those aged 0 to 4 years, followed by those aged 5 to 24 years. Current hotspots for high activity include New York and Maine.
Peak season: This flu season is the most severe on record in the past 15 years in terms of flu-related visits and hospitalizations. However, the flu vaccine has demonstrated similar levels of protection compared to recent years. Some observers believe the harsh season might be attributed to a later start of flu season coupled with the timing of winter holidays.