Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data suggests that the number of patients visiting the doctor with flu-like symptoms last week itself was higher than any winter flu season peak since 2009 or 2010.

Flu activity is at its highest level since 2009, forcing school closures and overwhelming hospitals across the U.S.

One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010.

With data showing a significant rise in flu cases nationwide, medical experts are describing it as the worst flu season since before the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been over 24 million flu cases nationwide this season,

There have been at least 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths from flu so far this season, according to the CDC. The agency said in its weekly flu surveillance report that seasonal influenza activity continues to increase across the country.

Data from the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention on doctors' visits for flu-like symptoms indicate this is the most intense flu season since 2009-10.

The U.S. is experiencing its most intense flu season in 15 years, with 24 million infections, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths. Flu is surging nationwide, impacting schools and straining healthcare systems.

The U.S. winter virus season is in full force and driving more doctor's office visits than any in the past decade.