Influenza activity is currently at low levels in Wisconsin. Other than SARS-CoV-2, we are seeing significant levels of rhinovirus and parainfluenza viruses. Rates of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in Wisconsin outpatients are considered low.
Data for US Surveillance from CDC have not been available since September 20, 2025. Influenza cases across Australia were about 70% A(H1), 20% B/Victoria, and 10% A(H3). There was, however, the emergence of an A(H3) variant (subclade K: https://nextstrain.org/seasonal-flu/h3n2/ha/2y) which took off across Australia at the end of the season. According to my source, this may be a pretty fit virus and may have quite a run in the Northern Hemisphere for the winter!
The use of rapid influenza testing is tenuous at this time based on low levels of circulating virus. RIDT(+) results should be confirmed using RT-PCR. Use of rapid COVID-19 testing is reasonable, and positive results do not need confirmation.
* The weekly influenza update is adapted from an email from Jon Temte, MD, PhD; Chair, Wisconsin Council on Immunization Practices; Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
