Influenza activity in Maryland is rising earlier and more rapidly than in previous years, prompting state health officials to renew calls for vaccination and preventative health measures. According to the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), flu cases traditionally begin increasing in early January and reach their peak in February. However, during the current flu season, health officials observed a noticeable rise in cases shortly after Thanksgiving, signaling an unusually early surge in respiratory illness across the state.
Data from the Maryland Combined Respiratory Illness Dashboard indicates elevated levels of influenza activity and related hospitalizations statewide. Since September 2025, MDH reports that seven individuals have died from flu-related complications in Maryland. In addition, more than 1,940 people with laboratory-confirmed influenza infections have required hospitalization. Health officials note that these figures demonstrate a faster acceleration of cases compared to previous seasons, even when compared to years in which hospitalizations exceeded 8,000 statewide.
In response to the increased transmission, the Maryland Department of Health has recommended that healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, consider implementing masking policies for both patients and staff. These measures are intended to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses in high-risk environments where vulnerable populations are more likely to be exposed.
Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani emphasized that influenza can pose serious health risks to individuals of all ages but is particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems. She noted that while the state is experiencing an early spike in cases, the flu strains currently circulating are included in this year’s vaccine formulation. Dr. Seshamani stressed that vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing severe illness, complications, and hospitalization associated with the flu.
Health officials also clarified that individuals who may have already contracted one strain of influenza before receiving their flu shot can still benefit from vaccination. The flu vaccine may help prevent infection from other strains or reduce the severity of illness if reinfection occurs.
In addition to vaccination, MDH encourages residents to practice everyday preventative habits to slow the spread of respiratory viruses. These measures include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and covering coughs or sneezes with a tissue or the sleeve of a shirt.
Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms is urged to contact a healthcare provider for guidance, symptom management, or treatment of potential complications. State health officials continue to monitor flu trends closely while encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities.
