The United States is experiencing its worst flu season in over 15 years, with cases surging to record highs and overwhelming hospitals nationwide.
According to Fox News, The rapid spread of the virus has forced numerous school districts to shut down temporarily in an effort to curb infections.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu-related hospitalizations have spiked dramatically in recent weeks, with over 200,000 cases reported nationwide—a number not seen in at least a decade and a half.
Health officials say the unusually high transmission rates are fueled by a combination of factors, including low vaccination rates, a particularly aggressive flu strain, and increased indoor gatherings during the winter months.
“We’ve seen an earlier and more intense flu season than usual,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, former CDC director. “This year’s dominant strain, H3N2, has been linked to more severe illness, particularly in young children and the elderly.”
As flu cases continue to rise, schools across multiple states, including Texas, Kentucky, and Ohio, have announced closures due to widespread student and staff illnesses.
Districts have reported absence rates exceeding 30%, making it difficult to maintain normal operations.
In Kentucky, Boyle County Schools shut down for several days after a significant number of students and teachers fell ill.
The district superintendent, Mark Wade, emphasized the need for a break, stating, “With so many students out sick, keeping schools open would only contribute to further spread.”
Similarly, in Texas, Paris Independent School District canceled classes after more than 20% of its students were diagnosed with the flu. Officials are using the closure to deep-clean buildings and encourage families to seek medical care.
Emergency rooms and urgent care centers are experiencing a massive influx of flu patients, which is straining medical resources. Due to the overwhelming number of cases, some hospitals have reported bed shortages and long wait times.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has urged parents to vaccinate their children, as flu shots remain one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and hospitalizations.
However, flu vaccine uptake remains lower than previous years, with many parents opting out due to concerns over vaccine efficacy.
