(NewsNation) — Flu cases are surging nationwide as fewer Americans are being vaccinated against the virus.
According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 130 million Americans have received a flu shot so far during the 2025-26 flu season — a drop from the more than 190 million doses distributed during the height of the pandemic.
The United States is now experiencing its highest rate of flu cases in at least 25 years, with 19 states reporting the highest levels of respiratory illness measured by the CDC. As of Dec. 27, officials report at least 11 million cases, 120,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths this season.
Doctors warn the worst may still be to come.
Doctors: Peak flu season still ahead
During Christmas week alone, flu cases jumped 33%, with more than 33,000 additional hospital visits compared to the previous week.
New York City is facing a record surge, with more than 4,500 flu-related hospital visits during Christmas week alone — a 24% increase compared to the week prior. State health officials also reported more than 72,000 new cases over a seven-day period.
“It’s looking to be the worst season in 25 years,” said Dr. Natalie Vajta. “We’re seeing a ton of flu. There are different strains of flu, but what we’re seeing most of right now is flu A, which is common to be the first peak. Then we are headed to flu B.”
Since the early 1980s, the most commonly observed peak of flu season has come in February, but cases often ramp up starting in December.
Vaccine-resistant flu strain driving cases
Health experts say the surge is partly due to a vaccine-resistant strain, known as the “super flu.” While the virus can evade some protection from this year’s vaccine, doctors stress that vaccination still significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.
“It still offers really good protection, and for people who are elderly, it has about a 70% likelihood of preventing the elderly from getting into the hospital,” said Dr. Markalain Dery, an infectious disease specialist.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said the best way for people to avoid hospitalization is to get vaccinated.