Ohio flu season
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The Ohio flu season refers to the annual period of increased influenza activity within the state of Ohio, typically occurring between early fall and late spring. Like the rest of the United States, Ohio experiences seasonal fluctuations in influenza circulation, with cases often beginning to rise in October and commonly extending through March. Sporadic cases, however, may appear year-round. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) monitors statewide influenza trends through hospitalizations, laboratory reports, and outbreak data.[1]
Circulating strains
Ohio has periodically experienced seasons dominated by specific influenza subtypes. In recent years, a variant of influenza A (H3N2), sometimes referred to as the "super flu," has been responsible for significant spikes in cases and hospitalizations. This strain, identified as an H3N2 subclade K variant, spread widely due to limited prior immunity in the population.[2]
Influenza B also contributes to seasonal activity, occasionally rising later in the season as influenza A declines. National surveillance has shown periods where influenza B cases increase even as overall flu activity stabilizes or decreases.[3]
See also
References
- ^ "Influenza". Ohio Department of Health. Retrieved 14 February 2026.
- ^ Wildow, Samantha (7 January 2026). "'Super flu' to blame for rough influenza season on Ohio, ODH director says". Dayton Daily News. Retrieved 14 February 2026.
- ^ Martichoux, Alix (11 February 2026). "7 states back in CDC's worst tier for flu as influenza B spreads". The Hill. Archived from the original on 12 February 2026. Retrieved 14 February 2026.