Mandy
Residents across Kansas experiencing coughing, fever, headaches, body aches, or sore throats may be dealing with the flu, as activity levels have surged sharply in recent weeks.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza-like illness (ILI) activity in Kansas has climbed to a “very high” category, placing the state among the hardest hit nationwide.
CDC Data Shows Sharp Rise in Flu Activity
On January 9, the CDC released updated surveillance data showing Kansas among U.S. states reporting very high flu-like illness levels during the week ending January 3.
Health officials caution that CDC tracking systems may overrepresent certain populations and may not fully capture all flu cases in every community. Even so, the trend clearly shows elevated flu spread across the state.
Flu Season Numbers: Illnesses, Hospitalizations, and Deaths
The current flu season has already taken a significant toll nationwide. Based on CDC estimates through January 3:
- 15 million flu-related illnesses
- 180,000 hospitalizations
- 7,400 deaths
The CDC confirms that seasonal flu activity remains high across the United States, not just in Kansas.
Common Flu Symptoms to Watch For
The CDC identifies the following as the most frequent flu symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Extreme fatigue
- Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
Medical attention is strongly recommended if flu symptoms worsen or if any of the following warning signs appear:
- High fever (104°F or higher) that medication cannot control
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Ongoing chest or abdominal pain
- Bluish lips or face in children
- Persistent dizziness, confusion, or dehydration
- Symptoms that improve but then return or worsen
- Seizures
- Any fever in infants under 12 weeks old
- Flu symptoms worsening existing chronic conditions
What Is the New “Super Flu” Strain?
Health authorities are also monitoring a newly identified strain known as Influenza A (H3N2) subclade K.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this strain first appeared in Europe earlier in the flu season and has since spread to parts of the United States.
While H3N2 subclade K spreads more easily due to limited population immunity, experts say it does not appear to cause more severe illness than other flu strains. Most patients recover safely at home using standard care.
How to Protect Yourself From the Flu
Health experts agree that the best protection against flu infection is vaccination.
Even though the current vaccine may not be a perfect match for the new strain, doctors say it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment strongly recommends annual flu shots for everyone aged six months and older.
Flu vaccines are widely available through:
- Healthcare providers
- Pharmacies
- Local health departments
With flu cases in Kansas reaching very high levels, health officials urge residents to stay alert, recognize symptoms early, and seek medical care when necessary.
While a new H3N2 “super flu” strain is spreading more easily, vaccination remains a powerful defense against serious illness. Taking preventive steps now can help protect individuals, families, and communities throughout the remainder of the flu season.