The 2026–27 influenza season has started early in the United States. CDC FluView data for the week ending 24 October showed 6,100 lab-confirmed flu hospital admissions, up from 4,811 the week before, and estimated hospitalisation rates the highest for that week since 2010–11, Nature World News reported. The CDC also reported the season’s first child death, linked to influenza A(H1N1).
Key facts
- Season so far: at least 1 million illnesses, 16,000 hospitalisations and 900 deaths (CDC estimates)
- Strain: 98.9% of subtyped influenza A viruses were H1N1
- Highest rates: adults 65 and older; HHS Region 9 (California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii)
- Forecast: admissions likely to keep rising through mid-November
- Experts are watching a G155E mutation in an H1N1 strain, but it is too early to say whether it explains the early start (Northeastern University)
- The CDC notes that an early rise doesn’t necessarily mean a higher peak or more severe season
What nurses should do
- Get vaccinated yourself if you haven’t. Protection takes about two weeks.
- Offer vaccination to every eligible patient aged 6 months and over; children 6 months to 8 years who have never had a flu vaccine need two doses at least four weeks apart.
- Use droplet precautions for suspected flu and test as per local protocol.
- Know antiviral criteria: antivirals such as oseltamivir work best when started early, especially for high-risk and hospitalised patients.
- Stay home when sick and follow your employer’s policy.
Who is at high risk?
- Adults 65+, young children, pregnant women
- People with chronic heart, lung, kidney or metabolic disease
- People with weakened immunity
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late to get a flu shot?
No. Vaccination is recommended throughout the season.
Is this relevant outside the US?
Northern Hemisphere countries often see similar strains. Check your national public health updates.
Related reading: Droplet and airborne precautions · Vaccine safety for nurses
Sources: CDC FluView via Nature World News; Northeastern University.
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