Why This Year’s Flu Season Is the Worst in More Than a Decade

The 2023–2024 flu season has been the worst in more than a decade, with hospitalization and outpatient visit rates at a 15-year high. This surge is partly due to the late start of the season, which, combined with post-holiday gatherings and school re-openings, led to a second peak. Flu strains like H3N2 and H1N1 are causing more severe illness, and lower vaccination rates have compounded the impact.

Children, particularly the unvaccinated, have been hit hardest, with 98 deaths reported by February 22. Experts urge vaccination and antiviral treatments to mitigate risks, especially for high-risk individuals. Flu vaccination remains a critical tool in controlling the spread. Read more in Scientific American here.