Season 13 • Episode 995

995 - A Record-Breaking Flu Season

Jan 12, 2026

16:00

Episode Description

About this episode:

Flu is surging in states across the country, breaking a 25-year record for flu-related doctor visits. In this episode: the new strain of influenza A that's driving cases, why getting a flu shot can still protect you, and how antivirals can help if you do get sick.

Guest:

Andrew Pekosz, PhD, is a virologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health with appointments in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and Environmental Health and Engineering.

Host:

Stephanie Desmon, MA, is a former journalist, author, and the director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs.

Show links and related content:

Doctors still recommend flu shot despite sneaky new strain—Politifact
US Flu Cases Show No Signs of Letting Up—Bloomberg
Flu reaches highest level in the US in 25 years—CNN
How Bad Will This Winter Be for Flu, COVID, RSV, and Measles?—Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Transcript information:

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