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Flu Hospitalizations Surge in El Paso Amid Ongoing Record Season

KVIA•Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:23 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The CDC reports a dramatic increase in flu activity across the U.S., with approximately 40,000 hospitalizations in the week ending January 3, marking a 10% rise from the previous week. This season has seen at least 15 million flu illnesses and 7,400 deaths nationwide, with children under two at particular risk. As flu cases remain elevated, health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, especially for children aged six months and older. Parents are urged to seek immediate medical attention if their child exhibits severe flu symptoms. The CDC expects flu activity to persist for several more weeks, despite a slight recent decline in some indicators.

Key Details: • Parents should vaccinate children ages 6 months and older to reduce flu risks. • Seek immediate medical help if children show severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or high fever. • Flu activity is expected to remain high for several more weeks. • Only about 40% of the U.S. population has been vaccinated this season.

health children flu cdc vaccination

People & Organizations

CDCAmerican Academy of PediatricsU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesBostonDr. Bisola Ojikutu

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