By Dr. Julie Matsuura, medical director, Hoag Medical Group
As we enter the 2025–2026 flu season, I want to speak directly to our patients and community about a growing concern: the decline in flu vaccination rates and the very real consequences we’re seeing as a result.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s preliminary estimates for the 2024–2025 season, the U.S. experienced:
- 47 to 82 million flu illnesses
- 21 to 37 million flu-related medical visits
- 610,000 to 1.3 million hospitalizations
- 27,000 to 130,000 flu-associated deaths
These numbers are staggering. But what’s even more heartbreaking is this: The 2024–2025 season saw the highest number of flu-associated pediatric deaths since influenza became a reportable condition in 2004.
Be Proactive About Your Health
If you do become sick, don’t wait too long to seek care. Early treatment can prevent complications and reduce the severity of illness.
Hoag Medical Group offers multiple options for care: primary care, urgent care, our 24/7 Nurse Advice Line; and emergency services at two award-winning hospitals.
Whether it’s a mild symptom or something more serious, we’re here to guide you to the right level of care.
What You Can Do
At Hoag Medical Group, we’re here to make vaccination easy and accessible. Whether you’re coming in for a routine visit, a chronic condition follow-up, or a same-day sick appointment, we can administer your flu shot during your visit. You can also schedule a quick back-office appointment just for your vaccine.
If you’re unsure whether the flu vaccine is right for you or your child, talk to your Hoag physician. We’re here to answer your questions, provide evidence-based guidance, and support your health decisions without judgment.
Protect Yourself. Protect Others.
Getting vaccinated isn’t just about avoiding the flu; it’s about preventing complications, hospitalizations, and in the most tragic cases, death. It’s about keeping our schools open, our hospitals from being overwhelmed, and our most vulnerable loved ones safe.
Let’s work together to reverse the trend. Get your flu shot this season. It’s one of the simplest and most powerful steps you can take to protect your health—and the health of those around you.
