This year’s flu season has commenced with alarming severity.

According to a report released by the California Department of Public Health, more than 900 individuals have tragically lost their lives to influenza since the start of October, surpassing the death toll recorded at this same time during any of the past six respiratory virus seasons.

A significant portion of these fatalities, about 25%, have occurred among individuals under the age of 65. While older adults typically face the highest risk—with approximately 700 deaths reported among those aged 65 and above—at least 15 children have also died due to the flu, including four teenagers in San Diego County, which raises alarm for communities.

When we analyze the statistics from previous flu seasons, the current year’s impact is markedly higher than in recent years.

As of Week 7 of this flu season, about 500 deaths occurred last year, and around 600 were reported the year prior; however, both of those seasons had begun to plateau by mid-February. In contrast, this year’s mortality rate shows no signs of a slowdown.

Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist and professor at UC San Francisco, expressed surprise at the escalation of illness. Initially, the flu season was anticipated to be standard, but it has proven to be exceptionally severe. With the positivity rates for flu tests still elevated, it is likely that hospitals will continue to see patients for several more weeks before the virus typically subsides with the arrival of warmer weather.

“It’s surprising, especially considering we didn’t see much COVID this year, yet the flu has been widespread and severe,” said Chin-Hong. “This is not just any flu; it’s a particularly virulent strain affecting many.”