Michigan Still Outpacing the Country for Flu and Respiratory Illness

If it feels like everyone you know is coughing, sniffling, or texting you a very polite “sorry, I’m sick again,” it’s not just you. Michigan is once again leading the pack when it comes to respiratory illness to start off 2026.

For another week, Michigan is outpacing the national average when it comes to people heading to the doctor for flu-like symptoms. More than 10 percent of outpatient health care visits in the state are tied to respiratory illnesses right now, which is actually higher than the rest of the country.

There is a small bit of good news, though. During the week ending January 3, flu-like illness in Michigan dipped slightly, going from 11.3 percent of visits down to 10 percent. It’s not a super dramatic drop, but it did finally break a six-week streak of increases, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Nationally, things also eased up a bit, with the average falling from 8.2 percent to 7.2 percent. Still, Michigan is one of 22 states that the CDC currently considers to have “very high” flu activity. So yes, we’re still very much in the thick of it.

Is this the end? Who knows. The previous flu season here in Michigan was one of the worst in more than a decade, with high hospitalization rates and the most pediatric flu deaths seen since at least 2004. This season is moving faster than last year did, even if it’s still unclear whether it will hit the same kind of peak. Last year, things didn’t max out until February, so there’s still time for this to go either way.

So what can we actually do right now, besides sigh and refill the tissue box? Doctors continue to recommend the basics that none of us love but all of us need to hear. If you’re sick, stay home when you can. Wash your hands like you mean it. Try not to touch your face, even though that’s apparently impossible for most of us.

And yes, it’s still worth mentioning the flu shot. Health officials say it remains the best way to reduce your risk of severe illness, even this far into the season. Fewer than a quarter of Michigan residents have gotten this year’s booster, which is… not great.

Winter in Michigan is always a marathon, not a sprint. Between the weather and the germs, it can feel like a lot. If nothing else, take this as your sign to slow down, listen to your body, and give yourself permission to rest when you need it. The rest of us will still be here (probably washing our hands again.)