DISC Health Equity Action Lab
What Virus is Going Around Right Now?: Flu, COVID-19, and How to Stay Healthy
The 2025 holiday season is in full swing, bringing with it crowded airports, festive family gatherings, and unfortunately, a significant surge in sickness. As families reunite, many are asking the same question: what virus is going around right now? Health officials have noted a typical but intense spike in several respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses this winter. While the holidays are a time for joy, they are also peak season for germ transmission.
Understanding the current landscape of viral activity is crucial for keeping your family safe. From a severe flu season to a resurgence in measles, the 2025 viral landscape is complex. If you are noticing flu symptoms or feeling under the weather, you aren’t alone. This guide breaks down the top illnesses circulating this season and how you can protect yourself.
Influenza (Flu): A Severe Start to the Season
When looking at what virus is going around right now, Influenzaâspecifically Influenza Aâis dominating the charts. Cases have risen much earlier than normal during the 2025 season, catching many off guard before they had a chance to get vaccinated.
Health data indicates that a severe flu variant is currently spreading globally. As of December 2025, Influenza A is the predominant strain. This strain is often associated with more severe symptoms, particularly in the elderly and young children. The rapid spread is contributing to crowded waiting rooms and a strain on urgent care centers. Recognizing early flu symptoms like sudden fever, body aches, and fatigue is vital for seeking timely treatment, such as antivirals, which work best when taken within the first 48 hours of illness.
COVID-19: Variants Adding to the Strain
While many hoped the days of tracking COVID waves were over, the virus remains a persistent threat during holiday travel. COVID-19 variants continue to circulate alongside seasonal viruses, creating a “soup” of respiratory pathogens.
These variants are contributing to a steady rise in hospitalizations and a continued high demand for healthcare services. The primary concern this season is the co-circulation of COVID-19 with the flu and RSV, sometimes referred to as a “tripledemic.” While we aren’t facing a new pandemic 2025 situation, the viral load in communities is high enough to disrupt holiday plans significantly. Testing remains a key tool here; distinguishing between COVID-19 and the flu is impossible based on symptoms alone.
Norovirus: A Gastrointestinal Threat
If you are wondering what virus is going around right now that isn’t respiratory, the answer is likely Norovirus. This highly contagious gastrointestinal virus is seeing a notable spike nationwide.
Unlike respiratory viruses that spread through the air, Norovirus is primarily spread through contaminated food, surfaces, and direct contact. It is notoriously difficult to kill and spreads like wildfire during holiday gatherings where shared meals are common. Symptoms hit hard and fast, usually involving severe vomiting and diarrhea. It is often called the “stomach flu,” though it is not related to influenza. Special care must be taken with hygiene, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers are often ineffective against this specific virus.
RSV: High Risk for Vulnerable Groups
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity is currently very high. While this virus often presents as a mild cold in healthy adults, it is a major health threat for specific vulnerable groups.
Young children, particularly infants, and older adults are at the highest risk for severe RSV infection. In 2025, we are seeing high hospitalization rates for these demographics. RSV causes inflammation in the small airways of the lung and can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis. If you are visiting relatives with new babies or elderly grandparents this holiday, be hyper-aware of any respiratory symptoms you might have.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A Rapid Spread
One of the more alarming trends of 2025 is the rapid spread of Pertussis, commonly known as Whooping Cough. Cases in 2025 have spread nearly twice as fast as the previous year, surpassing 9,000 cases nationally.
This bacterial infection can cause violent, uncontrollable coughing fits that make it hard to breathe. It is particularly dangerous for babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated. The resurgence reminds us that even preventable diseases can make a comeback when vaccination rates dip or immunity wanes. Adults often forget they need Tdap boosters to maintain immunity and protect the children around them.
Measles: A Resurgence in 2025
Perhaps the most concerning answer to “what virus is going around right now” is Measles. 2025 has seen the most measles cases in the U.S. since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000.
This highly contagious virus is a continued concern for holiday travelers, especially those moving through international hubs. Measles can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. The resurgence highlights the critical nature of herd immunity. For families traveling this season, ensuring measles vaccination (MMR) status is up to date is one of the most effective safety measures available.
Preventive Measures to Stay Healthy
With so many pathogens circulating, taking proactive steps is the best way to ensure your holidays remain festive rather than feverish. Health experts recommend the following to minimize your risk:
- Prioritize Vaccination: Ensure you are up-to-date on vaccines for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Vaccines remain the most effective tool to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
- Focus on Hygiene: Frequent handwashing is essential. Remember that for Norovirus, soap and water are necessary because the virus is resistant to many alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Scrub for at least 20 seconds.
- Utilize Testing: Don’t guess. Utilize at-home tests if you develop symptoms before attending social events. Staying home when you are sick is the greatest gift you can give your loved ones this year.
For more insights on health trends and lifestyle news, visit The Narrative Matters. Staying informed is your first line of defense.
For specific medical advice, symptom checkers, and the latest surveillance data, we recommend visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
About
DISC Health
The Health Equity Action Lab (HEAL) is an initiative by Dynasty Interactive Screen Community aimed at addressing health disparities in the U.S. and globally. By engaging media and stakeholders, HEAL seeks to reduce health inequalities and raise awareness. Their approach includes overcoming socio historical barriers and confronting the institutional, social, and political factors that perpetuate healthcare inequality.
Howard University Hospital (HUH)
Howard University Hospital, established in 1862 as Freedmenâs Hospital, has a rich history of serving African Americans and training top medical professionals. Located in Washington, D.C., it is the only teaching hospital on the campus of a historically Black university. HUH is a Level 1 Trauma Center and a critical healthcare provider for underserved populations. It offers advanced medical services, including robotic surgery, and has received numerous accolades for excellence in specialties like heart care, stroke treatment, and radiology.
Learn more about Howard University Hospital (HUH)
Howard University Faculty Practice Plan (FPP)
The Howard University Faculty Practice Plan is a multi-specialty physician group in Washington, D.C., dedicated to advancing healthcare and eliminating health disparities. It offers comprehensive services, including primary and specialty care, mental health, imaging, and cancer care, all connected to Howard University Hospital. FPP emphasizes patient-centered, respectful care for the diverse community and provides free health screenings and events to promote wellness.
Learn more about Howard University Faculty Practice Plan (FPP).
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