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Severe Flu Season Hits U.S.: CDC Warns of Contagion

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. is facing a severe flu season, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting high levels of influenza-like illness.
The dominant strain, influenza A (H3N2) subclade K, causes more severe symptoms and spreads more easily.
Dr. Samantha Picking states that individuals can be contagious for five to seven days after symptoms begin, with young children and immunocompromised individuals potentially contagious for up to 14 days.
It is advised to stay home until fever-free for 24 hours, and antiviral medications can lessen contagiousness if taken early.
The flu vaccine is effective in preventing serious illness from this variant.

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Story summary

The U.S. is facing a severe flu season, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting high levels of influenza-like illness.
The dominant strain, influenza A (H3N2) subclade K, causes more severe symptoms and spreads more easily.
Dr. Samantha Picking states that individuals can be contagious for five to seven days after symptoms begin, with young children and immunocompromised individuals potentially contagious for up to 14 days.
It is advised to stay home until fever-free for 24 hours, and antiviral medications can lessen contagiousness if taken early.
The flu vaccine is effective in preventing serious illness from this variant.