Experts warn of unusually early flu activity and urge early vaccinations

U.S. health officials are observing an early uptick in influenza cases, with testing positivity rates increasing in the western states since early September, according to epidemiologist Caitlin Rivers of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Rivers said the rise in flu activity is uncommon for this time of year and that the season typically begins in the South before spreading northward, making the current western focus atypical.

Virologist Dr. Alex Greninger of the University of Washington linked the early surge to a newly identified flu variant that may better evade existing immunity, particularly among teenagers. He noted that patient numbers at his institution resemble levels usually seen around the holiday season.

Public health experts, including virologist Scott Hensley of the University of Pennsylvania, are urging the public to consider receiving influenza vaccinations earlier than usual. "It's crucial that people get an influenza vaccine," Hensley said, adding that this year may warrant an early shot.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not issued its typical seasonal flu-shot promotion. A CDC spokesperson said the agency is developing a communications strategy to provide clear information about vaccination benefits and risks.

Former CDC immunization director Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, who resigned over concerns of political interference, expressed disappointment at the agency's low profile, noting that flu annually causes hundreds of child deaths and tens of thousands of hospitalizations.