7 Flu Deaths in Maryland Since September, Officials Report
Rising Flu Cases in Maryland
Seven people have died, and more than 1,900 individuals with lab-confirmed flu have been hospitalized in Maryland since September 2025, according to the state’s Department of Health. This alarming increase has led to a significant rise in respiratory virus-associated hospitalizations, now exceeding 10 per 100,000 Maryland residents. In response, the health department has recommended that healthcare facilities implement masking for both patients and staff due to the high transmission levels.
The flu cases in Maryland have surged more rapidly than at this time last year, signaling an early and intense flu season. Dr. Nishad Rahman, the Medical Director of Emergency Medicine and Observation at Northwest Hospital in Baltimore County, recently shared his concerns with WJZ. He noted that area hospitals have been seeing a big uptick in flu patients for more than a month.
“This is actually an earlier and more aggressive peak than we see in any typical year, so we continue to see flu patients well into February in any given year,” Dr. Rahman said. He described this as one of the worst flu seasons he has seen in some time, with flu activity listed as “high” on the Maryland Department of Health’s influenza dashboard.
Hospitals Struggling with Increased Demand
Dr. Rahman explained that every hospital is trying to staff up and allocate more resources toward the front end to manage the surge in patients. “The expectation is that we will continue to see this surge, volume, and acuity of patients,” he added. The situation highlights the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in managing the increased demand during this flu season.
Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect oneself from the virus, according to Dr. Rahman. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that only about 42% of adults and children have gotten vaccinated. Dr. Rahman suggested that the low vaccination rate may be contributing to the flu surges.
“The biggest benefit is that if you have the flu shot and you subsequently get the flu — it does not mean the vaccine was ineffective,” Dr. Rahman said. “The vast majority of the time, you will not end up being hospitalized.”
New Guidelines for Flu Vaccinations for Children
On Monday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services updated its recommendations for childhood vaccinations. The new guidelines reduced the number of vaccines it recommends for every child, allowing families more flexibility in choosing what they want to do. However, families will still have access to vaccines.
The CDC now recommends that all children be vaccinated against 11 diseases, rather than the previously recommended 17 vaccinations. The guidelines also emphasize that the decision to vaccinate children for COVID-19, influenza, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B should be based on “shared clinical decision-making” between the doctor and the parents.
This shift in policy reflects a broader approach to pediatric immunization, focusing on key diseases while allowing for individualized care based on family preferences and medical advice.
Preparing for the Flu Season
As the flu season continues to unfold, public health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures seriously. With the current surge in cases and the potential for further spread, staying informed and taking action is crucial. Getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when sick are all important steps in reducing the impact of the flu.
Healthcare providers are also working to ensure that resources are available to meet the growing demand. By following public health recommendations and making informed decisions about vaccinations, individuals can play a vital role in protecting themselves and their communities.
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