(NEXSTAR) — Flu activity in the U.S. is surging, and Tennessee and Kentucky are among the states seeing the highest levels, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Between December 20 and 27, the nation saw a 33% jump in positive flu tests and an 8% increase in doctor visits for flu symptoms. The data includes the Christmas week, a period when travel and gatherings typically accelerate the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Flu Surge Strains Health Systems
Before the holidays, only six states had “very high” flu activity. By December 27, 30 states had moved into that top tier, including Kentucky and Tennessee. Only Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, and West Virginia remain in the “low” or “moderate” categories.
CDC officials note that flu activity continues to climb across the country, and experts warn that peak season may still be weeks away.
The ‘Super’ K Variant Driving the Spike
The rapid increase is being fueled by a new influenza A variant known as subclade K, which has already caused significant outbreaks in Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. In the U.K., NHS officials have described the outbreak as an “unprecedented wave of super flu” straining hospitals.
Low flu vaccination rates in the U.S. have raised concerns about a potentially severe season, though experts emphasize that it’s not too late to get a flu shot. Virologist Dr. Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University said in December, “We’re really at the beginning of the influenza season here in the U.S.”
States With “Very High” Flu Activity (as of Dec. 27)
Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
Residents are urged to practice standard precautions such as hand hygiene, masking in crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated to help limit the spread of the virus.
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