Pennsylvania Flu Activity Rises Rapidly as Cases Climb

State health data show flu activity is still low statewide but increasing quickly, with 10,294 lab-confirmed cases reported since October 4.

Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Allergies

Pennsylvania Flu Activity Rises Rapidly as Cases Climb

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The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported that flu activity remains low statewide but is increasing rapidly. A total of 10,294 lab-confirmed flu cases have been reported since October 4, and eight flu-related deaths have been recorded this year.

Why it matters

Rapidly rising flu activity signals that respiratory illness is accelerating across Pennsylvania as the season progresses. Tracking case counts and deaths helps residents and health providers understand where and how quickly the virus is spreading.

Pennsylvania's surveillance counted 10,294 lab-confirmed flu cases since October 4, with 9,511 type A and 767 type B, while 457 RSV cases have been reported this year. The report offers no comparison to prior seasons and does not project how quickly activity will continue to rise.

The players

Pennsylvania Department of Health

The state agency responsible for public health surveillance, disease reporting and health guidance for residents of Pennsylvania.

The details

Flu activity for both type A and type B is low statewide but rising rapidly, and the percentage of emergency room visits linked to flu remains low for all age groups. High concentrations of flu have been seen on the eastern side of Pennsylvania, while Indiana County has reported no flu or RSV cases this year. RSV activity is low but increasing slightly.

October 4, 2026: Pennsylvania began counting lab-confirmed flu cases this season.
November 13, 2026: The Pennsylvania Department of Health published its flu activity report.

Seasonal Patterns

The state's lab-confirmed influenza surveillance program, run by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, is tracking this season's cumulative counts against a rising trend in type A cases. This update extends that ongoing series, which is the baseline for judging whether the season is following typical winter patterns.

Residents in Pennsylvania should watch for rising flu symptoms as activity increases, particularly on the eastern side of the state where concentrations are highest. Because emergency room visits linked to flu remain low, the report does not indicate an immediate strain on local care, but people with respiratory symptoms should contact a provider early.

The takeaway

Flu activity in Pennsylvania is low but climbing fast, so keeping current on seasonal vaccination and early symptom care can help reduce the impact as cases rise.