Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City health authorities say that influenza is moving quickly around Kansas City, and the number of cases is rising sharply as winter continues. According to the latest data, the number of recorded flu cases increased from the week of December 21 to December 27, 2025.
This spike is the fourth-highest weekly total in the city in the past 15 years, which means that this flu season is going to intense and fast-moving.
According to the Kansas City Health Department, the number of infections in the area is much higher than the average for the whole country, which is 199 cases per 100,000 people. Young kids are getting the worst of it.
The highest rates are among kids aged 4 and under, with 728 cases per 100,000. The next highest rates are among kids ages 5 to 14, with 535 cases per 100,000. Young adults aged 15 to 24 are also getting sick at a high rate, with 240 cases per 100,000 people.
Health experts say that the rising number of cases is making things harder for families and their daily lives. Dr. Marvia Jones, the director of the Kansas City Health Department, stressed the significance of personal responsibility and advised the public to remain home from work, school, and social activities when they are sick to stop the spread.
Statewide indicators also reflect the seriousness of the situation. Missouri’s flu-like sickness activity has gone from low to extremely high, showing that it is spreading widely. Influenza A continues to be the most common type, making up 91% of reported cases. Influenza B, on the other hand, only makes up 9% of occurrences. In the area, there are still more cases of the flu than of COVID-19.
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Children have the highest incidence of infection right now, but older people, those with chronic medical issues, pregnant women, and very young children are at the greatest risk of developing serious problems.
Health authorities stress that being vaccinated remains the best way to stay safe. Residents are additionally advised to keep their hands clean, stay away from sick people, and get medical help when they start to feel sick.
