WEEKLY UPDATE: 01/15/26
Respiratory illness activity and flu-related emergency department (ED) visits are “very high” in Connecticut, according to the latest snapshot from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For COVID-19, ED visits are low but increasing, and community viral activity level is very high. ED visits for RSV-related illness are moderate but increasing, and community viral activity is very low.
The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has recorded more than 21,000 cases of influenza, nearly 1,800 flu-related hospitalizations, and 41 flu-related deaths since the current respiratory viral disease season began in October. DPH data show activity has been trending down this week compared to last, but DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, stressed “flu is serious in Connecticut” and the season has not yet peaked.
As of Friday, January 9, the CDC reports that seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across the country, driven by a new variant of the virus known as “subclade K” and suboptimal vaccination rates across all ages. The spike is expected to continue for several more weeks, especially as children return to school from winter break.
Connecticut public health officials emphasize that vaccination offers the greatest protection against serious complications from the flu.
Related News:
