AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The CDC estimates 4.6 million flu cases have occurred across the United States since the season began, with 1,900 patients dying, including one case in South Carolina.

Influenza A is the most frequently reported flu virus so far this season. Doctors say a particular variant is causing a highly contagious illness with intense symptoms that come on rapidly.

Local doctors report that flu case numbers this year are about the same as those in past flu seasons. Despite the predominant flu strain emerging after this year’s vaccine was created, they say getting vaccinated remains at the top of the prevention list.

“People gather and exchange not only good thoughts, but also viruses. And so most definitely we have seen an increase after the flu, after the holiday season. In this case, we have an increase leading into the holiday season,” said Dr. Ioana Chirca, medical director for infection prevention at Wellstar MCG hospital.

Peak season timing shifts

Peak flu season is hitting later this year compared to past years, coinciding with a mutation that emerged after this year’s vaccine was prepared.

The flu appears to be sweeping the CSRA, with local residents calling in sick as they report severe symptoms, even after receiving flu shots. The timing coincides with Christmas travel and gatherings, giving the virus opportunities to spread.

“So we may see a slight decrease in the effectiveness of this year’s flu vaccine, but that is yet to be seen,” Chirca said. “So the vaccine remains the mainstay of prevention against influenza.”

New strain challenges vaccine effectiveness

The dominant strain causing the surge is subclade K, a mutation of influenza A. The variant emerged after the 2025-2026 flu vaccine was developed, meaning the current vaccine does not target this specific mutation.

“We think this subclade K virus is evading population immunity, meaning more people are susceptible to infection,” said Professor Andrew Pekosz with Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

While doctors and the CDC said the best protection remains the flu vaccine, Pekosz said this year the shot may not provide complete protection.

“It has mutations that may allow it to evade some but not all of the influenza vaccine-induced protection,” he said.

Regional impact across two states

Georgia and South Carolina both show high numbers of flu cases, with South Carolina slightly higher, according to the latest statistics. New York, Colorado and Louisiana have higher levels than both states.

Georgia has seen 12 flu-related deaths this season, while South Carolina has recorded six deaths.

Dr. Nita Bijoor, a family physician at Oakview Medical Associates in Greenville, S.C., said the new strain causes more severe illness.

“It’s more severe, especially in children and the older population,” Bijoor said.

Treatment options remain effective

Doctors say there are treatment options available for those who contract the flu.

“Things like Tamiflu or Zofluza, these are two medications that are being used for influenza and they remain effective on this flu strain. So for patients who qualify for treatment, they have this option to be treated with antivirals,” Chirca said.

The flu vaccine typically targets three strains: H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B. The new subclade K variant contains mutations in the H3N2 component, but medical experts say vaccination remains important.

Symptoms and prevention

Flu symptoms remain consistent with previous strains, including abrupt onset of high fever, body aches, headaches and chills.

“People will say, ‘Doc, it just hit me like a truck. I just overnight developed a high fever, body ache, headache, chills, and just feeling flu-like fatigue,’” Bijoor said.

Additional symptoms can include dry cough, runny nose, and, in younger patients, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Doctors say keeping calm about national headlines is most important.

“We need to be careful, but we don’t need to be panicking about it. And the vaccine is still effective, or at least partially effective,” Chirca said.

In addition to the vaccine, doctors recommend washing hands, covering coughs, and ventilating indoor spaces. While they don’t recommend traveling if infected, they recommend wearing a mask or face covering if travel is necessary.

Medical experts recommend seeking care from a healthcare provider at the onset of symptoms, especially for those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. Testing is available both in medical offices and through home test kits.

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