Flu Cases Surge Nationally, Highest Hospitalizations Since 2017

Massachusetts is experiencing a significant spike in flu cases, with public health officials reporting the highest volume recorded in recent years. The state has raised its severity level of influenza from high to very high, noting that 6.8% of hospitalizations in late January were due to flu, up from 3.55% earlier that month. Despite the alarming rise, only 38% of residents have received their flu vaccinations. Nationally, the flu season is one of the worst in 15 years, with the CDC estimating approximately 24 million cases and 650,000 hospitalizations across the U.S. Experts attribute the severe flu season partly to lower vaccination rates, which are around 46% for both children and adults. Health officials continue to advocate for vaccinations and proper hygiene practices to mitigate the outbreak.