INDIANA — State health officials are raising the alarm as Indiana enters the new year facing a severe surge in respiratory illnesses. According to the latest data from the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) and the CDC, flu activity in the state has officially reached a “very high” level, marking one of the most aggressive starts to a flu season in years.
In a report released Monday, January 5, 2026, health officials confirmed three additional flu-related deaths during the final full week of 2025. This brings Indiana’s total death toll for the current 2025–2026 season to 17.
The virus continues to take its heaviest toll on older populations. Of the 17 deaths recorded so far:
- 12 involved individuals aged 65 and older.
- Five involved adults between the ages of 25 and 64.
- No pediatric deaths have been reported in Indiana yet this season, though the CDC has confirmed 9 pediatric deaths nationwide.
Marion County remains the hardest-hit area in the state, accounting for six of the total deaths.
Hospitals Implement Emergency Restrictions
The surge—driven largely by the aggressive H3N2 strain—has prompted major hospital systems in Central Indiana to implement temporary visitor restrictions. In response to the high volume of flu and RSV cases, facilities within the Community Health Network, Indiana University Health, Ascension St. Vincent, and Franciscan Health have adopted the following policies:
- Age Limits: No visitors under the age of 18 are permitted.
- Health Screening: Anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness (fever, cough, sore throat) is barred from visiting.
- Visitor Limits: Most inpatient areas are limiting patients to two visitors at a time.
Seasonal Impact at a Glance
| Metric | Current Status (as of Jan 2026) |
| Total Indiana Deaths | 17 |
| Activity Level | Very High (IDOH & CDC) |
| Dominant Strain | Influenza A (H3N2) |
| Marion County Deaths | 6 |
| National Context | 32 states currently reporting “High” or “Very High” activity |
The CDC’s regional surveillance shows that Indiana is not alone in this spike. Neighboring states, including Ohio and Kentucky, are also reporting “very high” activity levels. Health experts warn that cases are expected to climb further as students return to classrooms this week following the winter break.
