As influenza cases continue to rise across Utah, health officials are urging residents to prioritize vaccinations in light of increasing hospitalizations related to the virus. The Wasatch County Health Department has reported at least 12 hospitalizations this flu season, which includes data from December and January, indicating a concerning trend for local healthcare resources. Jonelle Fitzgerald, the director of the Wasatch County Health Department, noted that hospitalizations serve as a crucial indicator of flu severity in the region. This year has already seen a notable uptick in hospitalizations, with 25 reported for the entirety of 2025, which starkly contrasts the previous five-year average of approximately 13. “Influenza hospitalizations this year are pretty high right now, but about the same level as last winter,” Fitzgerald said. “We are witnessing more cases than we did in the previous five years, but it’s challenging to determine if we have peaked or if the numbers will continue to rise.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also flagged elevated flu activity nationwide, projecting that the trend may worsen in the coming weeks. Dr. Andrew Pavia, a physician and researcher with expertise in infectious diseases at the University of Utah Health, echoed these concerns, stating, “The hospitalization rate across the state is high, currently at 8.42 hospitalizations per 100,000 people, which is slightly above last year’s peak.” This indicates that Utah is experiencing a severe flu season, similar to what was witnessed last winter. In recent weeks, Pavia has encountered alarming cases of influenza among children, including instances where patients required advanced life support. “I have seen some very severe and scary cases of influenza in children in the last couple of weeks,” he remarked. Despite the severity of the cases, Pavia emphasized that there is no indication of a “super flu” this season, but rather a concerning trend of increased hospitalizations. One significant factor contributing to the rising hospitalization rates could be the declining vaccination rates in Wasatch County. Fitzgerald pointed out that there has been a noticeable trend of fewer vaccinations in recent years, which may be a contributing factor to the heightened flu season being experienced this year. “The vaccine is still the best mode of protection,” Pavia affirmed, stressing that individuals who have not yet received their flu shots are running out of time to safeguard themselves against the virus. “Virtually all of the people who have been hospitalized with severe complications of influenza have not been vaccinated.” Both Fitzgerald and Pavia agree on the importance of the flu vaccine in reducing hospitalizations. “Even when it doesn’t protect you against infection, the vaccine greatly decreases your chances of ending up in the hospital or in the ICU,” Pavia explained. The CDC has consistently advised that influenza can be deadly, emphasizing the need for widespread vaccination. In addition to vaccinations, healthcare professionals recommend antiviral medications such as Tamiflu, which can reduce the duration of the illness if administered within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. Pavia also highlighted the importance of home testing and self-isolation for those exhibiting symptoms of the flu. “Generally, you should stay home until your fever is completely resolved and your symptoms are improving,” he advised. For those returning to work after illness, especially around vulnerable populations, wearing a mask for additional days is recommended. As the flu season progresses, Fitzgerald remains cautiously optimistic about the trajectory of cases in Wasatch County. “It is difficult to know if we have reached the peak flu season, but we hope to see a decline in cases soon,” she said. As the community navigates this challenging flu season, health officials are imploring residents to take preventive measures seriously, including getting vaccinated and adhering to public health guidelines. The health department’s proactive stance aims to mitigate the impact of influenza on the community and protect the most vulnerable populations. In summary, as influenza cases surge in Utah, health officials stress the importance of vaccinations and public health measures to combat rising hospitalizations. With the flu season still ongoing, residents are encouraged to act swiftly to protect their health and the health of others in their community.