AUGUSTA, Ga. – As we approach the end of 2025, health authorities are sounding the alarm over a significant increase in flu cases sweeping the nation. The surge in influenza is causing concern among medical professionals and the public alike.

In a recent discussion, Dr. Brandon Bentley from Wellstar MCG Health shared insights into the situation. “We’re definitely witnessing a notable outbreak of influenza in our region. The CSRA is experiencing a particularly severe impact this year,” Dr. Bentley noted, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been over 6 million flu cases reported globally since the onset of the flu season, with nearly 5 million of those cases occurring within the United States. This sharp rise underscores the importance of taking preventive measures to safeguard individual and public health.

“From my knowledge, we’ve definitely been seeing an outbreak of influenza in the area. It’s definitely hitting the CSRA pretty hard this year,” said Bentley.

The CDC reports more than 6 million flu cases worldwide since the season started, and nearly 5 million cases here in the U-S.

Peak flu season is hitting later this year compared to previous years, and the holiday travel is increasing the chance of the virus spreading. 

“We see a rise in flu rates around this time of year with all the travel, all the time spent inside, the time you spend with loved ones who were traveling. Even if you weren’t traveling yourself, if you’re seeing anyone who’s been on a plane, train, or others lately, those big community events just make it really easy for this virus to spread,” Bentley said.

He says some of the best prevention methods are to get your flu shot and wash your hands.

“Pretty much anything you can cough, sneeze, or accidentally touch after you’ve touched your mucus membrane (your mouth, nose, eyes), that can hold on to the virus. You want to wash your hands. Anytime that you accidentally touch your face or if you’re about to eat, make sure that you’re preventing your risk of getting the flu as well,” Bentley added.

With New Year’s Eve on the horizon, doctors still want you to have fun, but encourage you to know your limits. 

“It’s okay to stay home. It’s okay not to go to that party, it’s okay to delay those times. So, if you might be getting sick, don’t put others at risk,” he said.

Doctors say it’s also a good idea to keep a hand sanitizer bottle handy.

If you are at risk, they recommend avoiding large gatherings to stay safe.