Seasonal influenza cases are elevated nationally and expected to remain elevated in the weeks ahead. It's the second peak in flu cases this season, and doctor’s visits for flu-like symptoms are higher than they have been in 15 years. According to CDC’s flu tracking data, flu levels are “very high” for Nebraska and Georgia, and “high” for Missouri. As of February 1st, the CDC estimates there have been 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths from flu in the U.S. since October. The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine.

In the week ending February 1st, flu rates in the U.S. are estimated to be higher than they have been in the past 15 years. The CDC uses a combination of current test results and hospitalizations as well as some assumptions about flu behavior based on previous years to estimate flu rates. Infection or testing patterns may change these estimates. More information on these assumptions can be found here.

Some schools have temporarily closed due to high numbers of student absences due to illness. The temporary closings allow for time to disinfect classrooms and for sick staff and students time to recover. At least ten states have seen school closures due to high levels of illness this season.

Based on surveillance data as of February 12, 2025, the most common flu viruses currently circulating are Influenza A subtypes H1N1 and H3N2, which are seasonal influenza viruses that circulate yearly.

People who have the flu should stay home until 24 hours after they no longer have a fever to avoid spreading it to others. It is also not too late to get vaccinated, and it is recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine each year.