CDC Reports Nearly 5,000 Early Flu Hospitalizations Nationwide
Early Influenza Hospitalizations Surge Across the United States
Influenza season started early this year, prompting health experts to advise Americans to get their flu shots immediately, even in regions where virus activity remains low. Nearly 5,000 lab-confirmed influenza hospitalizations occurred nationwide during the week ending October 17, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Anna Durbin, MD, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Immunization Research, stated during a media briefing that this represents the highest early-season hospital rate for mid-October since the 2010-11 flu season.
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Key Clinical Takeaways:
- Nearly 5,000 lab-confirmed flu hospitalizations were logged nationwide for the week ending October 17, marking the highest mid-October rate since the 2010-11 season.
- Early infections are driven by an H1N1 variant of influenza A, for which current data indicate an incomplete vaccine match, though the shot still prevents severe illness.
- Federal estimates show up to 81,000 US residents died from flu-related illnesses between October 1, 2025, and May 23, 2026.
Vaccine Offers Partial Match for Early H1N1 Variant
Early infections this season are driven by an H1N1 variant, which is a type of influenza A virus. Data suggest this year’s vaccine is an incomplete match for this specific variant. Despite the mismatch, the vaccine can still prevent severe illness. The shot also protects against two other circulating viruses: another influenza A strain and a B lineage flu virus, both of which are expected to circulate widely later in the respiratory virus season. Because the vaccine works best before flu activity starts, people should get vaccinated as soon as possible, according to Andrew Pekosz, PhD, co-director of the Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence in Influenza Research and Response. He described the current timing as a good last call. Up to 81,000 US residents lost their lives to flu-related illnesses between October 1, 2025, and May 23, 2026, according to early CDC projections.
FDA Approves mRNA Flu Shot for Adults over 50
Adults aged 50 and older have the option of receiving an mRNA flu shot. Durbin noted that this vaccine has an excellent safety profile and performed better in clinical trials than standard vaccines. The Food and Drug Administration approved the shot in August, making this flu season its first test. Researchers are actively monitoring the mRNA vaccine for real-world effectiveness, with preliminary performance data expected in December or January. Because influenza viruses mutate rapidly, vaccine manufacturers must rely on educated guesses made at least six months before the season begins. Messenger RNA technology allows vaccines to be manufactured faster, which could hypothetically enable scientists to select strains closer to the start of the season and reduce the window for viral mutation.
Co-Administration with COVID-19 and RSV Vaccines
Eligible individuals should consider receiving their COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines alongside their annual flu shot, as both currently circulating COVID and RSV vaccines are good matches for active viral strains. All three shots can be administered at the same time. The CDC recommends the current COVID-19 shot for adults 18 and older, as well as children aged 6 months through 17 years who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the COVID vaccine for all children from 6 months through 2 years, while suggesting that physicians offer a single dose of the 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccine to children age 2 and older who are not at increased risk if parents desire it. Adults aged 75 and older, alongside individuals starting at age 50 who face a higher danger of developing severe RSV symptoms, are advised by health guidelines to get the RSV vaccine. Pekosz also advised purchasing over-the-counter test kits for these viruses and checking which local pharmacies stock prescription antiviral drugs for flu and COVID, noting that antivirals must be administered relatively soon after symptoms begin.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.