US Flu Season Most Intense in 15 Years

The United States is experiencing its most intense winter virus season in 15 years, primarily driven by a severe flu outbreak. The United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports at least 24 million flu illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths, including 57 children. Flu activity is high or very high in 43 states, particularly in the South, Southwest, and Western regions. COVID-19 and RSV cases appear to be declining. The Godley Independent School District in Texas closed for three days due to widespread illness. Vaccination rates for children are down compared to previous years. Health officials are also monitoring a bird flu strain, Type A H5N1, which has sickened millions of animals and infected 67 people in the United States. The Trump administration has imposed a 'pause' on health agency communications, limiting the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's ability to provide updates.