Flu Activity on the Rise in Florida

Florida Flu Map January 12 to January 18, 2025 (Week 3)
Florida Flu Map January 12 to January 18, 2025 (Week 3). Credit: FDOH



MIAMI, Florida – The Florida Department of Health has reported an increase in influenza (flu) and influenza-like illness (ILI) activity across several counties, with multiple outbreaks recorded in the past week. The latest surveillance data, covering the period from January 12 to January 18, 2025 (Week 3), indicates an uptick in flu-related emergency department visits and positivity rates.

Flu Trends and Outbreaks

According to state health officials, the following counties have reported flu outbreaks this week:

  • Baker (1), Liberty (1), Miami-Dade (1), Orange (1), Pinellas (4), Seminole (2), Suwannee (2), Volusia (1).

The predominant flu strain currently circulating is Influenza A H3, with an increase in flu-related emergency department visits compared to the previous three-week average.

Health Recommendations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges high-risk individuals—including children under 2 years old, adults aged 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions—to seek antiviral treatment as soon as flu symptoms appear. Treatment is most effective when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Health officials also stress the importance of annual flu vaccination as the best preventive measure. Since flu vaccines take up to two weeks to become fully effective, residents are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

In Florida, individual flu cases are not reportable unless they involve novel Influenza A strains or flu-associated pediatric deaths. However, all flu outbreaks are reported and investigated to mitigate further spread.

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