Flu, COVID-19, and RSV fuel illness surge across the U.S.: What you need to know

WASHINGTON: Flu cases are surging nationwide, with COVID-19 and RSV also contributing to rising respiratory illnesses, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Health experts are urging heightened precautions as flu activity alone has seen a dramatic increase, driving a concerning spike in hospitalizations.

Flu season peaks early with record positivity rates

As of last week, flu test positivity rates reached a significant 18.7%, jumping from just 2.5% in late November. Among positive cases, influenza A accounted for 98% of infections, while influenza B comprised 2%. The CDC notes that flu season typically peaks between December and March, yet this early-season surge highlights the unpredictable nature of flu outbreaks.

Clinical reports show that flu-like symptoms, including fever, sore throat, and cough, have been widespread. CDC’s flu tracking methodology, based on doctor’s visits for flu-related illnesses, also captures data on other respiratory conditions, including RSV and common colds, compounding the overall illness burden.

COVID-19 cases hold steady but pose continued risk

COVID-19 positivity rates remain high, with emergency room visits and hospitalizations gradually increasing. For the same period, the test positivity rate held at 7.1%, while hospitalizations rose slightly to 2.2 per 100,000 people. Health officials advise Americans to stay vigilant as COVID-19 continues to circulate alongside flu and RSV.

The CDC also reports low vaccination uptake for the current COVID-19 season. As of December 23, only 20.9% of U.S. adults have been vaccinated for 2024-2025, and pediatric vaccination rates are even lower, with just 10% of children receiving the shot.

RSV strains pediatric health systems

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is placing significant pressure on pediatric emergency departments. The virus remains highly contagious among young children, with a notable rise in cases through December. Emergency visits related to RSV are climbing, underscoring the importance of preventive measures, particularly for infants and high-risk children.

Vaccination rates lag for COVID-19 and RSV

The RSV vaccine uptake remains slow among eligible adults. CDC data shows that only 44% of adults 75 and older have ever received the RSV shot, and uptake among high-risk adults aged 60–74 is similarly low. Public health officials stress the importance of vaccinations to reduce the severity of illness and protect vulnerable populations.

Protecting yourself during this triple-threat season

As the flu, COVID-19, and RSV converge, medical professionals recommend:

• Getting vaccinated for all three viruses if eligible.
• Wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings.
• Practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
• Staying home when symptomatic to prevent the spread of infection.
• Closing Thought: Be Prepared, Stay Protected

This respiratory illness season is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by viral outbreaks. By taking proactive health measures, individuals can protect themselves and reduce the strain on healthcare systems.

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