Florida on high alert as peak flu season hits Southwest

Southwest Florida is seeing peak flu activity, with the state now in the CDC’s “very high” category. So far this season, the flu has caused an estimated 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths nationwide.

Local health officials say the region typically experiences a surge in flu and other respiratory illnesses in January, partly due to holiday visitors from northern states where flu season begins earlier.

According to the CDC’s Jan. 5 update, 48 U.S. jurisdictions report high or very high flu activity, with Influenza A viruses being the most common so far. Nine children have died this season, including two in the last week of December. In that same week, 33,000 people were hospitalized across the U.S.

Dr. Larry Antonucci, president and CEO of Lee Health, said peak season has arrived in the region. Data for the week ending Dec. 27 showed over 950 positive flu cases at Lee Health facilities, including outpatient centers, emergency departments, and inpatient settings. Last year, the same week recorded 1,273 positive tests.

Dr. Mary Beth Saunders, Lee Health’s vice president of medical affairs, said southern Florida often sees another flu spike during spring break in March and April.

Vaccinations and precautions
The CDC recommends annual flu shots for everyone six months and older. Over 130 million doses have been distributed this season, with 42% of children vaccinated. While the vaccine may not always be a perfect match, it reduces symptoms, illness duration, and contagiousness.

Health officials emphasize that flu can often be managed safely at home, but individuals at higher risk—such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions—should consult a doctor early if symptoms develop.

Tips to reduce risk and spread

Get the annual flu vaccine
Wash hands frequently
Stay home if sick
Cover coughs and sneezes
Practice good general hygiene

Flu symptoms

Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue
Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

When to seek immediate care
Seek urgent medical attention if experiencing:

Trouble breathing or fast breathing
Persistent chest or abdominal pain
Bluish lips or face (in children)
Confusion or inability to wake
Severe dehydration
Worsening chronic conditions
High fever or seizures
Fever in infants under 12 weeks

For guidance on care options, symptom checkers, and locations:

Lee Health: leehealth.org/get-care
NCH: nchmd.org/care-now and nchmd.org/locations

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness this flu season.

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