California is experiencing its worst flu season in five years, with infection rates soaring while vaccination numbers decline, particularly among children. The state's clinical labs report a flu test positivity rate of nearly 28% as of February 1st - the highest level seen since early 2020.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports "very high" flu levels in California's wastewater monitoring, surpassing both RSV and COVID-19 readings. While test positivity rates for RSV and COVID-19 are declining nationally, flu cases continue to rise.
The impact is especially concerning among children, with vaccination rates hitting a troubling low. Only 47.7% of California children received flu shots by late January, down from 53.7% during the same period last year. This decline has had devastating consequences - at least 10 children, including three unvaccinated teenagers in San Diego County, have died from flu complications this season.
Statewide, the outbreak's severity is evident in the numbers: The CDC estimates approximately 24 million illnesses and 310,000 hospitalizations nationwide, with roughly 13,000 flu-related deaths, including 57 children.
Dr. Ankita Kadakia, interim public health officer for San Diego County, describes this as "a particularly long and difficult flu season compared to recent years," warning that the season isn't over yet.
The surge has prompted health officials to renew their calls for vaccination, especially as the current flu season shows signs of extending longer than usual. The situation has become more complex amid rising vaccine skepticism, creating additional challenges for public health efforts to control the outbreak.
Schools remain particularly vulnerable to outbreaks, with some facilities in other states forced to close due to widespread infections. Public health experts emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing severe illness and limiting the virus's spread.