As the holiday season approaches with families eagerly anticipating Christmas festivities, a concerning rise in flu cases is sweeping across the United States. Medical professionals are urging parents to exercise heightened vigilance as they prepare for family gatherings, travel, and the upcoming school breaks.

According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu season, as of the week ending December 6, has already witnessed nearly 3 million reported cases nationwide. This has resulted in at least 30,000 hospitalizations and 1,200 fatalities. Certain states, such as Colorado, Louisiana, and New York, are experiencing particularly high levels of flu activity. In response, some school districts have resorted to remote learning or have closed early due to significant student absences caused by illness.

This year’s predominant flu strain is a newer K variant of the H3N2 influenza virus, which began circulating internationally during the summer months. Although the current flu vaccine isn’t an exact match for this strain, health authorities emphasize that vaccination remains a crucial protective measure. This is especially true for vulnerable groups, including young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions.

Dr. Tara Narula, chief medical correspondent for ABC News, recently highlighted on Good Morning America the importance of flu vaccination. “Data from the U.K. indicates that the vaccine can reduce hospitalizations in children by approximately 70-75% and in adults by about 30-40%,” she stated. “It’s essential for people to get vaccinated, particularly before upcoming travel.”

Dr. Narula also pointed out the critical timing aspect, noting that it takes approximately two weeks for the vaccine to build up protective antibodies, which is vital to consider when planning holiday activities.

For families traveling over the break, the AAA estimates more than 122 million Americans will do so between Dec. 20 and Jan. 1, experts recommend simple but effective habits: frequent handwashing, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and masking when needed.

Packing alcohol-based hand sanitizer, extra face masks, and disinfecting wipes can help reduce exposure during flights and long drives. If someone in your household feels sick, wearing a mask or postponing travel altogether can help protect others.