How flu deaths compare to past seasons

Flu deaths are rising slower than during the last three seasons, preliminary data from the CDC suggests.

The percentage of deaths due to flu or pneumonia was 6.9% in the week ending Dec. 2, data shows. This figure has been increasing since early November but is lower than the same period during the previous three flu seasons. The total number of flu deaths for the week (56) is also down significantly from this time last year (851), when the U.S. saw flu peak unseasonably early.

In total, the CDC estimates there have been 1,600 to 4,600 flu deaths nationwide this season, which began Oct. 1. 

Here is how current flu death figures compare to past seasons, based on CDC data.

Note: A death estimate is not available for the 2020-21 season due to minimal flu activity amid the pandemic, the CDC said. 

Season 

Percentage of deaths due to flu or pneumonia in week 48 (ending Dec. 2)

Total flu deaths reported in week 48

Cumulative seasonal death estimates

2023-2024

6.9

56

1,600 to 4,600 (as of Dec. 2)

2022-2023*

8.4

851

21,000

2021-2022*

11.9

37

4,900

2020-2021

14.3

27

N/A

2019-2020

5.5

66

24,000

2018-2019

6

38

27,000

2017-2018

6.5

83

52,000

2016-2017

6.5

34

38,000

*Estimates for these seasons are preliminary. 

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