Florida Enters 2025 With High Flu Activity

U.S. Flu Activity Map. Credit: CDC

ORLANDO, Florida - Florida is currently experiencing high flu activity as of early January 2025 with Influenza A H3 being the predominant strain, according to the latest flu surveillance data from the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) for Week 52 (Dec. 22–28, 2024). 

Florida Flu Activity Map Week 52 (Dec. 22–28, 2024). Credit: FDOH

Nationally, during Week 51, of the 1,132 viruses reported by public health laboratories from across the United States, 1,110 were influenza A and 22 were influenza B. Of the 818 influenza A viruses subtyped during Week 51, 356 (43.5%) were influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, 461 (56.4%) were A(H3N2), and 1 (0.1%) were A(H5), according to the U.S Center for Disease Control.

Child Flu Deaths Increase In U.S.

Five pediatric deaths associated with seasonal influenza virus infection were reported in the U.S. during Week 51, bringing the 2024-2025 U.S. season total to nine pediatric deaths.

The  CDC emphasizes that individuals at higher risk of severe complications include:

Children under 2 years old,

Adults aged 65 years and older,

Pregnant women,

Individuals with underlying medical conditions.

Influenza (commonly known as the flu) is a respiratory illness caused by various viruses, primarily spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. Occasionally, individuals may contract the virus by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose.