Influenza Hospitalization Rates Reach New Highs in the 2024-2025 Flu Season

The 2024-2025 flu season has seen a significant increase in influenza-related hospitalizations, exceeding end-of-season rates observed since the 2010-2011 period. According to a comprehensive report published in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the overall influenza-associated hospitalization rate for this season has surpassed historical data, with a notable impact on individuals aged 75 and older. During the period from October 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025, the cumulative hospitalization rate was 127.1 per 100,000 population, with the highest rate among seniors aged 75 and above at 598.8 per 100,000.

Compared to previous seasons, hospitalization rates across all age groups during this period were 1.8 to 2.8 times higher than median historical figures. The report highlights that 32.4% of hospitalized patients had received an influenza vaccine, and 84.8% had been treated with antivirals, underscoring the importance of early intervention. Most hospitalized patients (89.1%) had underlying medical conditions, which increased their risk of severe illness. Among these patients, 16.8% required intensive care, 6.1% underwent invasive mechanical ventilation, and 3.0% succumbed in the hospital.

Experts emphasize that early use of antiviral medications is crucial to reduce the risk of complications in hospitalized influenza patients. The data demonstrates the severity of this season's flu impact and highlights the need for continued vaccination efforts and prompt treatment strategies.

For more detailed information, the full report is available in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. (source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-influenza-linked-hospitalization-high-flu.html)