Maryland flu cases climb as hospitalizations hit 100

Nearly 100 Maryland residents have been hospitalized for influenza this season, with one death reported so far. These figures come as flu cases begin to rise across the country, particularly in the Western and Southern regions. Medical providers in Maryland confirm the virus is circulating, though current case counts remain low. A recent wastewater sample from Oct. 17 showed minimal virus presence, suggesting that a large number of undetected infections are not yet widespread in the state.

The surge is visible in local schools. An outbreak among 50 elementary students and staff in Prince George’s County forced a shutdown of the school to contain the spread. Nationally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that approximately 5,000 people were admitted to hospitals for the flu in the week ending Oct. 17. Dr. Anna Durbin, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Immunization Research, described those national figures as somewhat high for this early stage of the season. Officials aim to avoid the heavy burden seen last year, which featured high illness rates alongside low vaccination numbers.

Current Maryland data indicates that most local cases involve H1N1 subtypes of influenza A. Andrew Pekosz, co-director of the Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence in Influenza Research and Response, noted that these specific strains can sometimes evade existing immune protections. However, he stated that the vaccine remains effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalizations. The current vaccine formulation targets three flu strains. Pekosz said during a media briefing on Thursday that two of those strains appear to match the virus currently circulating in the community.

As of this month, only 8% of Maryland’s population has received a flu shot. State health leaders recommend vaccination for everyone six months and older, aligning with major medical associations but diverging from recent federal guidance. The Trump administration has issued varying messages on vaccination following the disbanding of a key advisory panel. Durbin highlighted a new mRNA vaccine option recommended for adults age 50 and older. Clinical trial data indicates this version offers greater protection than traditional formulations. She advised patients to verify pharmacy stock and insurance coverage, as costs can reach $100.

Pekosz urged the public to get vaccinated now, explaining that the body requires two weeks to develop antibodies. He also recommended that residents stock up on at-home tests for both flu and COVID-19 to identify infections early. Different antiviral medications are available to shorten the duration and severity of illness. For those eligible, he suggested getting COVID-19 and RSV vaccines at the same time as the flu shot, anticipating a rise in cases in the coming weeks.

The state’s current approach focuses on early prevention as hospital data tracks the increasing trend. Medical experts maintain that timely vaccination is the most effective tool to reduce missed days of work and school. The next phase of monitoring will rely on continued wastewater testing and hospital admission numbers to gauge the intensity of the winter wave.