After a slow start, flu activity increased across the country late in 2025. Regionally, flu first showed up along the Atlantic coast and southwestern states. That activity has now made it’s way across the U.S., with a significant increase across the Midwest. After a steady rise in visit volume from November 1 through the holidays, the number of visits sharply declined, and continues to drop into the new year. he CDC estimates that there have been at least 19,000,000 illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations, and 10,000 deaths from flu so far this season.
Last Updated January 28, 2026
Visits Per Clinic Per Day
After a significant increase in visit volume from 29 to 36 visits per clinic per date in December, we’ve seen a sharp decrease in urgent care visits. As of January 27, the 7-day rolling average 26 visits per visit per day. Last year, urgent care visits spiked from late January through mid-February, directly contrasting what we’re seeing in 2026.
Source: Experity data
Visits per clinic per day VS. Flu Seasonality
As we end the first month of the year, we’re seeing fewer positive lab results for flu. The 7-day rolling average for flu positivity dropped from 27% in mid-December to 20% on January 27.
Source: Experity Data
Flu Positivity
Over the last month, our maps have turned a much deeper shade of green all across the country, indicating that flu season is not over yet. Flu positivity in South Dakota and Nebraska are both showing rates over 35%, higher than any other states in the country. This does not mean these state has more cases, but that more than 35% of upper respiratory illness visits result in a positive flu diagnosis.
Source: Experity Data
FLU TESTING
According to our data, the highest concentration of flu activity resulting in lab testing and positive diagnoses is across the eastern and southeastern U.S.
Check out some of our top resources to help urgent cares manage and leverage fluctuating visit volume to secure continued business growth throughout the year.
