Influenza cases spike in Wisconsin as local health experts report lower vaccination rates
WISCONSIN (WFRV) – Wisconsin is among several states experiencing high to very high levels of influenza activity.
'I think this is measuring up to be one of the worst flu seasons we have had in 15 years,' said James Conway, medical director of the UW Health Immunization Program.
Data shows bone-chilling negative temperatures across northeast Wisconsin; How cold was it in your area:
Different strains of the virus circulate at different times of the year. However, the current Influenza A season is being called the most intense in years, leading to hospitalizations and deaths.
'A lot of people [are] getting hospitalized, most of the people getting hospitalized [are] including kids or people that have not been vaccinated, and we've had quite a few deaths in children already,' Conway said. 'I think the CDC report is up to almost 70 kids. This is not necessarily something that just affects people with underlying medical conditions.'
Health experts anticipated intense flu seasons and continue to recommend that people get vaccinated, stay home when sick, and practice good hygiene.
'You almost feel like you're adopting a little bit of OCD in how often you may think about washing your hands, but it's a survival measure at this time of the year,' Conway added.
As the respiratory illness spreads across the country, Conway expressed concern about low vaccination rates.
2025 Sturgeon Season update: Lowest harvest reported on Lake Winnebago
'Influenza immunization rates here in Wisconsin are significantly lower than they usually are,' he said. 'Only about 33% of Wisconsin residents at this point have gotten a flu vaccine, which is down quite a bit.'
Flu vaccines are still available at pharmacies, urgent care centers, and some doctors' offices.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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