JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Tennessee, alongside other states across the nation, has experienced a large spike in flu cases in December 2025, causing concern amongst health officials and residents.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over seven million cases of the flu were confirmed, alongside 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths related to the flu virus. The Tennessee Department of Health has released the reported number of influenza cases across the state from Dec. 20. Number of outpatient visits caused by the ongoing outbreak had jumped 6.5%, with different regions seeing varying spikes in influenza cases. Southeastern Tennessee, including Marion County and the Chattanooga area, has seen the largest spike in cases within the state at over 10%, the Sullivan County Metro Area following behind it at 9.9%.
Health officials publicly stated one contributing factor to the large influx is due to a mixed combination of strains within the environment, flu types A and B being the most common strains of the virus currently spreading. Additionally, a new strain of the virus categorized as subclade K has been reported by health officials, adding to the rising number of individuals contracting the flu during the season. Other factors also include respiratory droplets within indoor public facilities which help contribute to the virus’s rapid spread.
As the holiday season of 2025 concluded, all medical personnel are in preparations for a busy flu season as cases are expected to further increase throughout this season. All health officials recommend to always keep hands washed, and if caught sick to remain home whenever possible. The public is to also take warning for any symptoms of the flu, such as sore throats, body aches, coughing and fevers as this year’s flu season continues on each day.
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