Sun Jan 18 09:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Influenza Activity Decreases Nationally but Remains Elevated, Pediatric Deaths Highlight Vaccination Importance

The Story:
According to the CDC’s latest influenza surveillance report for Week 1 (ending January 10, 2026), influenza activity has decreased nationally compared to Week 53, but still remains above baseline levels. While the percentage of respiratory specimens testing positive for influenza has declined in all 10 HHS regions, the influenza A(H3N2) virus remains the most frequently reported strain. Of concern, 32 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reported this season, with a significant majority of the children eligible for vaccination being unvaccinated.

Key Points:

  • Nationally, the percentage of respiratory specimens testing positive for influenza decreased in Week 1 compared to Week 53.
  • Influenza A(H3N2) viruses are the most frequently reported.
  • 5.3% of outpatient visits were due to influenza-like illness (ILI), still above the national baseline.
  • Emergency department visits with influenza diagnoses decreased.
  • Hospitalization rates decreased to 5.6 per 100,000 population in Week 1.
  • The cumulative hospitalization rate is 50.4 per 100,000 population, the second highest at Week 1 since 2010-2011.
  • 2.1% of deaths occurring during the week ending January 10, 2026 were due to influenza, an increase compared to Week 53.
  • 32 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reported this season; 90% of eligible children who died were not fully vaccinated.

Key Takeaways:

  • While influenza activity shows signs of decreasing, levels remain elevated and continue to pose a public health concern.
  • The A(H3N2) strain continues to dominate, requiring ongoing monitoring of its characteristics and potential impact.
  • The high percentage of unvaccinated children among pediatric deaths underscores the critical importance of influenza vaccination.
  • Healthcare-seeking behavior or reporting variations during the holiday season may influence data trends, necessitating careful interpretation.
  • Racial and ethnic disparities in hospitalization rates highlight the need for targeted prevention and treatment efforts.

Impact Analysis:

  • Public Health Messaging: The report highlights the urgent need for reinforced public health messaging promoting influenza vaccination, particularly among children. Targeted campaigns should address vaccine hesitancy and improve access to vaccination services.
  • Healthcare Preparedness: Continued monitoring of hospitalization rates will be essential for ensuring adequate healthcare capacity and resource allocation, particularly for vulnerable populations like older adults and children.
  • Vaccine Effectiveness: The genetic and antigenic characterization data collected by the CDC are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the current influenza vaccine and informing future vaccine development.
  • Health Equity: The identified disparities in hospitalization rates based on race and ethnicity necessitate a focused approach to addressing underlying social determinants of health and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

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