Hospitals across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region are seeing a sharp rise in flu patients, and health experts warn that the current wave may only be the beginning of a difficult flu season. Doctors say a fast-spreading and more aggressive strain of influenza A is now driving emergency room visits and hospital admissions.
Medical teams report that the surge is being fueled by a combination of students returning to school after winter break and a flu strain that many people have little natural immunity against. “The numbers are climbing very quickly,” said Dr. Bill Petri, an infectious disease specialist with UVA Health. “We are heading into a rough period, and we are not at the peak yet.”
A tougher strain is dominating this season
According to doctors, nearly all current cases are being caused by influenza A, especially the H3N2 variant, also known as the K-clade strain. This type of flu is known to cause more serious symptoms, especially in older adults, young children, and people with chronic illnesses.
Health officials say many patients are experiencing sudden and intense symptoms, including high fever, strong body aches, extreme fatigue, and sore throat. Emergency rooms across the region are already feeling the pressure.
In Maryland, influenza A now accounts for around 11% of all emergency room visits. In Virginia, the figure is close to 10%. Washington, D.C., does not separate cases by strain, but reported more than 800 flu cases in the final week of 2025 alone.
“It’s rare to see two severe flu seasons in a row,” said Jon Gonella, a physician assistant working in emergency medicine in Montgomery County. “But that’s exactly what seems to be happening.”
Vaccine still strongly recommended
Doctors continue to urge the public to get a flu shot, saying it is not too late to protect yourself and others. While this year’s vaccine is not a perfect match for the dominant strain, experts say it still plays a major role in preventing serious illness and hospitalization.
Specialists estimate the vaccine is about 40% to 60% effective this season. “Even when it doesn’t fully prevent infection, it often makes the illness much milder,” Petri explained.
Early testing and treatment can help
Doctors also recommend getting tested quickly if flu symptoms appear. Rapid flu tests are widely available at pharmacies and clinics.
Patients who test positive may benefit from antiviral medications such as Tamiflu, which can shorten the length of illness and reduce the risk of complications if taken early.
A warning and a reminder
Health experts say the coming weeks will be critical and are urging people to take simple precautions: wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and stay home if symptoms appear.
“The window to prepare is still open,” Petri said. “But it’s closing fast.”
