Flu Season Officially Underway As Holiday Travel And Shopping Fuel Spread

Holiday shoppers and travelers are doing more than spreading seasonal cheer this year. They are also helping spread germs, as new data shows flu activity is on the rise across the country.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of doctor’s visits for flu-like symptoms rose to 3.2 percent for the week ending December 6. That level is above the national baseline used to determine when flu season is officially underway, signaling an early start to what could be a busy season.

Health experts say the majority of cases are being driven by a mutated flu strain known as sub-clade K. The variant has already been linked to early and active flu seasons in parts of Asia, Europe, and Australia, raising concerns that the United States could see a similar trend.

Doctors also warn that this strain appears to cause more severe illness, particularly among older adults and other vulnerable populations. With increased travel, crowded stores, and holiday gatherings, health officials are urging people to take precautions, including getting vaccinated, washing hands frequently, and staying home when sick.