Currently, America is experiencing its worst flu season since 2009, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a matter of fact, the CDC says there are so many cases that this season is now classified as being high severity for all age groups. Thats the first time a flu season has acquired that designation since the 201718 season.Still, some states are faring better than others. Heres what you need to know about the current 202425 flu season and where outbreaks are the worst.16,000 dead from flu so farThe 202425 influenza season is having a significant impact on the health and well-being of Americans. According to the CDCs latest US Influenza Surveillance Report for the week ending February 8, 2025, the flu this season has accounted for:29 million illnesses370,000 hospitalizations16,000 deathsThe CDCs report also reveals that during the most recent week, 31.6% of people tested came back positive for influenza, and 50,382 people were hospitalized for the illness in the most recent week alone.The flu has historically been particularly dangerous to the elderly, but sadly, this season, the illness is also hitting infants and children hard. The CDC says that in the past week alone, there were 11 influenza-associated pediatric deaths, bringing the total number of pediatric deaths for the season to 68.Based on data available this week, this season is now classified as a high severity season overall and for all age groups (children, adults, older adults) for the first time since 20172018, the CDC says.What states are being hit hard the worst?While respiratory illnesses seem to be running roughshod across the country, some states have it worse than others. The CDCs Outpatient Respiratory Illness Activity Map classifies respiratory illness rates into five categories: very-high, high, moderate, low, and minimal.36 states and the District of Columbia are currently listed in the very-high category, including: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.Nine states are classified in the high category: Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Minnesota, Nevada, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming.Two states are classified in the moderate category: North Dakota and Utah.One state is classified in the low category: Alaska.And two states are classified in the minimal category: Hawaii and Montana.Screenshot via CDC: Week ending February 08, 2025How can I protect myself against the flu?Its impossible to fully protect yourself from the flu. However, the CDC says the best way you can protect yourself is by getting the flu vaccine.Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season, especially people at higher risk, the agency notes.Other steps you can take to decrease your likelihood of getting the flu are to avoid those who are sick with the illness and to wash your hands. You can check out the CDCs full list of recommendations here.