Last year, flu cases began rising in early January and peaked in February. However, this year, cases began rising after Thanksgiving.
MARYLAND, USA — The Maryland Department of Health is urging resident get flu shots and practice other methods of virus prevention as respiratory illnesses continue to spike.
The Maryland Combined Respiratory Illness Dashboard shows elevated levels of flu activity and hospitalizations. Since Sept. 2025, seven people have died of the flu in Maryland, and more than 1,940 people with lab-confirmed flu have been hospitalized.
The health department has recommended that health care facilities, such as hospitals, institute masking for patients and staff due to the high transmission levels.
“The flu can be serious for anyone, but it is particularly dangerous for infants and older adults. This year we are seeing an early spike in cases, but the strains that are circulating are covered by this year’s flu vaccine,” said Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “Vaccines continue to be the most effective way to protect against severe complications from the flu. Please check out the evidence-based guidance on our website and talk to your health care provider to help keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.”
Health officials say when compared to the flu season prior, where more than 8,000 Marylanders were hospitalized, cases are surging more rapidly. Last year, flu cases began rising in early January and peaked in February. However, this year, cases began rising just after Thanksgiving.
MDH says those who contract one strain of the flu before they get their flu shot can still benefit from vaccination, which might prevent or lessen the impact of infection from one of the other strains.
Practicing healthy habits can lessen the spread of respiratory illness, such as:
- Avoiding close contact with sick people;
- Washing hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; and
- Covering your cough or sneeze with your sleeve or tissue.
Anyone who believes they have the flu should contact their health care provider for management of flu symptoms or treatment of any complications.