The United States is experiencing its worst outbreak of respiratory illness since the 1997–1998 flu season, according to new data released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
About 8.2 per cent of recent visits to doctors in the US were due to flu-like symptoms, with the CDC estimating at least 11 million infections, 120,000 hospital admissions and about 5,000 deaths, including nine children.
Health officials attribute the rapid spread to a new strain of influenza A (H3N2), known as subclade K. The outbreak follows an unusually severe 2025 flu season, which experts say is uncommon, as major flu outbreaks rarely occur in consecutive years.
Specialists had earlier warned that the current flu season could be more intense due to genetic changes in the virus that make it easier to spread. A similar rise in cases was recorded in the Southern Hemisphere last year, particularly in Australia, where health authorities reported a record number of infections during their winter.
Although the outbreak is centred in the US, health experts say the trend is important for other countries, including Ghana, where seasonal flu and respiratory infections remain a public-health concern.
Symptoms and treatment
Flu symptoms can include fever, body aches, cough, headache and extreme tiredness, according to medical experts. Some patients may also experience vomiting, diarrhoea or ear pain.
One key difference between the flu and a common cold is how quickly symptoms appear. While a cold often develops gradually, flu symptoms usually come on suddenly, sometimes within hours.
Most mild cases can be managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and pain or fever medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, people experiencing chest pain, breathing difficulties, confusion, severe dizziness or signs of dehydration are advised to seek medical care immediately.
Flu vaccines and protection
While flu vaccines may not perfectly match the newest strain currently spreading, health authorities say vaccination still reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death. Vaccines also offer protection against other flu strains that continue to circulate.
Public-health experts stress that vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for protecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions.
Staying safe
Simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection. These include:
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Regular hand-washing with soap and water
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Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
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Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
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Avoiding sharing food, drinks or utensils
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Wearing a face mask in crowded places, especially for older persons or those with weak immune systems
Health officials encourage the public to remain alert, particularly as respiratory infections often rise during periods of changing weather.
