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Influenza Cases Surge: Hospitalizations Triple, Deaths Rise

1/2/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

More than 25% of influenza tests in the United States are positive, double last year's rate, and health officials urge vaccination.
Hospitalizations are three times higher than last season, with nearly 800 in Colorado, due to the subclade K variant of influenza A.
New York reported a 38% increase in cases before Christmas, a record high.
Pediatric deaths have risen to nine, with Ohio and Kentucky reporting their first fatalities.

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Story summary

More than 25% of influenza tests in the United States are positive, double last year's rate, and health officials urge vaccination.
Hospitalizations are three times higher than last season, with nearly 800 in Colorado, due to the subclade K variant of influenza A.
New York reported a 38% increase in cases before Christmas, a record high.
Pediatric deaths have risen to nine, with Ohio and Kentucky reporting their first fatalities.