As the flu season progresses, experts are warning that it may turn out to be one of the harshest in decades. Dr. Nathaniel Brooks, a leading infectious disease specialist, shared his concerns with CNN, indicating that this season is likely to rival the devastating 2017-2018 flu outbreak, which was the deadliest in over forty years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “The early signs suggest we’re in for a tough season,” Brooks stated. “It’s looking grim.”
Recent data from the CDC, released on January 3, reveals that approximately 2,900 flu-related deaths have occurred this season, marking an increase of 800 from the previous week. Since October, there have been at least 6.4 million reported cases of flu, with around 55,000 hospitalizations, highlighting a concerning upward trend.
While Dr. Brooks noted that there is a slim chance these numbers could start to decline, he added, “If the current trajectory continues, we’re in for a rough time.” Per the CDC’s latest graph, the current flu season (represented in red) is on an alarming rise, nearing the peak of the particularly severe 2017-2018 season (shown in teal). “We certainly don’t want a repeat of that year,” Brooks cautioned. “Only time will tell, but if the numbers keep climbing, we could see an exceptionally bad season. The flu is notoriously unpredictable.”
This year, children have been particularly affected, with statistics showing that as of December 28, there have been 27 reported flu-related deaths among kids—the highest figure recorded at this point in the season in 17 years. Most of these fatalities involved influenza B strains, to which children remain especially susceptible due to their still-developing immune systems.
The CDC emphasizes that it’s not too late to receive the flu vaccine, stating, “Getting vaccinated is the best defense against flu and its serious complications.” They also highlighted the importance of antiviral medications in managing the flu. “More than 99 percent of this season’s influenza viruses are susceptible to the four FDA-approved antiviral medications recommended for use this year. These include oseltamivir phosphate (generic or Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), peramivir (Rapivab), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza).”
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In summary, this flu season is shaping up to be particularly severe, with rising cases and fatalities, especially among children. Vaccination remains the best preventive measure, and antiviral treatments are available to help manage the illness.
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