30 states are in the CDC's worst tier for flu as a 'super' variant spreads, with a 33% increase in positive tests in one week. The 'subclade K' variant is driving the rapid rise, with outbreaks in Canada, Japan, and the UK. NHS director Meghana Pandit warns of unprecedented strain on the healthcare system. Experts fear low vaccination rates could lead to a historically bad flu season, but it's not too late to get a flu shot. The most commonly observed peak of flu season has been in February, but cases often start ramping up in December. States with 'very high' flu activity include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
