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Influenza in Los Angeles County

Influenza,Flu

Photo from the Centers for Disease Control.


Also see:
-- COVID-19 in Los Angeles County
-- Notifiable Communicable Diseases & Conditions - Los Angeles County
-- When Los Angeles Last Faced a Pandemic.



Los Angeles County New Influenza Cases by 7-Day Period, CURRENT Flu Season 2025-2026

The new flu season began in October. Weeks are Sunday through the following Saturday. Numbers represent positive tests at specified Los Angeles County influenza surveillance labs.

Influenza, Flu, Cases, Los Angeles County

Los Angeles Almanac chart.


...and LAST Flu Season 2025-2026

Influenza, Flu, Cases, Los Angeles County

Los Angeles Almanac chart.



Flu Season* Positive Flu Tests† Influenza-Related Deaths
Total Deaths Pediatric Deaths‡
2026-2027 718
(Thru Oct. 17, 2026)
1 0
2025-2026 10,490 126 4
2024-2025 21,396 336 10
2023-2024 16,402 128 5
2022-2023 28,235 97 4
Flu Season* Positive Flu Tests† Influenza-Related Deaths
Total Deaths Pediatric Deaths‡
2021-2022 6,205 18 0
2020-2021** 206 16 1
2019-2020 15,489 210 8
2018-2019 6,429 125 2
2017-2018 12,429 289 2
Flu Season* Positive Flu Tests† Influenza-Related Deaths
Total Deaths Pediatric Deaths‡
2016-2017 6,855 77 1
2015-2016 6,702 70 3
2014-2015 5,752 54 3
2013-2014 3,953 105 4
2012-2013 3,163 69 7
Flu Season* Positive Flu Tests† Influenza-Related Deaths
Total Deaths Pediatric Deaths‡
2011-2010 1,149 21 2
2010-2011 2,122 34 3

* Although influenza is detected year-round, according to the Centers for Disease Control, a new "flu season" begins in October and peaks during December through February. Significant activity, however, can last as late as May.
† This number represents only those tested at specified Los Angeles County influenza surveillance labs and whose results were positive.
‡ Ages 0-17
** The dramatic drop-off in reported influenza cases during this period was attributed to widespread public health practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as requirements for face coverings, social distancing, closures, etc.

Source: Acute Communicable Disease Control, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health


Red Cross Motor Squads in St. Louis drill to meet the Influenza Epidemic, 1918
Los Angeles once faced a horrific influenza outbreak.