محمد محمد علي

Flu Season in the US Is the Most Intense It’s Been in at Least 15 Years

Why This Flu Season Is Breaking Records Several factors have converged to create this year’s “perfect storm” of flu activity. First, the dominant strain—H3N2—is notorious for its ability to mutate rapidly, reducing the effectiveness of seasonal vaccines. While this year’s shot offers some protection, its mismatch with circulating variants has left many vulnerable. Compounding the problem is what experts call an “immunity gap.” During the pandemic, masking and social distancing suppressed flu transmission for nearly three years, leaving people—especially children—with fewer natural defenses. Now, as society returns to normalcy, the virus is spreading unchecked.