Arkansas Flu Cases Plunge 30% Amid Minimal Activity Statewide

LITTLE ROCK -- Flu activity in Arkansas has plummeted this 2025-2026 season, with the Arkansas Department of Health reporting a 30% decline in cases compared to last year. As of the week ending April 18, 2026, cumulative lab-confirmed cases totaled 13,693, including 8,755 Flu A and 4,420 Flu B, down from around 13,000 by this point in 2025.[1][5] Health officials attribute the drop to elevated vaccination rates -- though Arkansas ranks low nationally at 38% adult flu shot uptake -- and a less aggressive circulating strain.[1][4] Statewide influenza-like illness (ILI) activity hit 'minimal' levels last week, scoring 1 out of 13 on the ILINet indicator, with outpatient visits at just 1.6%.[5] School absenteeism averaged 6.9% among public schools, reflecting lighter impact on communities from the Delta to the Ozarks.[5] Earlier this winter, Arkansas joined 30 states in the CDC's 'very high' tier as influenza A subclade K surged nationwide, driving a 33% jump in positive tests over late December.[2] Rural counties, often hit hardest, saw fewer spikes this year. The ADH has tracked 35 flu outbreaks in nursing homes and congregate settings this season, but hospitalizations and deaths remain below 2025 figures.[1][5] Dr. José Romero, ADH director, emphasized ongoing surveillance via the Influenza Surveillance Web Reporting system, which pinpoints cases by age, location and strain.[6] Free walk-in flu shots continue at Local Health Units statewide, with no out-of-pocket costs.[3] As respiratory virus trends ease -- with positivity rates low in children -- officials recommend hygiene, staying home when sick and vaccinations to guard against late-season surges.[5][2] The CDC notes national peaks often hit February, but Arkansas data signals a quieter close to flu season.[2][5]