San Diego, November 27, 2025
As flu and COVID-19 cases surge in San Diego, health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated. Current vaccination rates are low, with only 22% of residents vaccinated against flu and 7% against COVID-19, raising concerns for the upcoming holiday season. Hospitalizations have spiked significantly, leading to strain on local healthcare facilities. Residents are encouraged to protect themselves and others by getting vaccinated and following preventive measures during gatherings.
San Diego Health Officials Urge Vaccinations Amid Rising Hospitalizations
Residents encouraged to protect health as flu and COVID-19 cases rise
San Diego, California – With the holiday season just around the corner, health officials in San Diego are emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19. As increasingly crowded gatherings approach, residents are urged to protect themselves and their community from rising respiratory illnesses, especially given the recent surge in hospitalizations.
Current Vaccination Rates
As of late November 2025, vaccination rates among eligible San Diegans are concerningly low, with only 22% having received the flu vaccine and merely 7% vaccinated against COVID-19. These numbers are significantly lower than previous years, prompting health authorities to call for immediate action to improve vaccination coverage.
Rising Hospitalizations
Health officials are reporting a notable increase in flu cases, with hospitalizations rising sharply since October. The week ending November 15 registered around 160 flu-related hospitalizations, a steep climb from approximately 60 weekly cases earlier in the month. This uptick has led to local healthcare facilities facing considerable strain, necessitating the establishment of overflow tents at hospitals to manage the increased influx of patients.
Expert Insights
Health experts are echoing the urgency of this situation, noting a global trend regarding rising influenza rates. Countries worldwide, including Japan and the UK, have recorded elevated mortality rates attributed to the flu. Vaccination, they emphasize, is critical in preventing severe outcomes and easing the burden on the healthcare system.
Recommendations
In light of the current situation, health officials are urging all eligible individuals to receive both flu and COVID-19 vaccines before attending any holiday gatherings. Vaccines are recognized as the most effective way to prevent severe illness, thereby enhancing public health safety during the winter months.
Background
Typically, flu season in San Diego sees a peak around January or February. However, the early uptick in cases suggests a potential escalation and more severe flu season. Last year’s flu season was particularly harsh, with uncharacteristically high mortality rates observed, especially within the pediatric population.
Availability of Vaccines
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are widely available across various venues in San Diego, including pharmacies, healthcare providers’ offices, and county vaccination sites. Residents are encouraged to act as soon as possible to ensure adequate protection throughout the holiday season.
Preventive Measures
Besides vaccination, health officials recommend that residents adopt practical hygiene measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded indoor venues, and remaining home if feeling unwell. Such practices can help control the spread of illnesses during these critical months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the current vaccination rates in San Diego County?
As of late November 2025, only 22% of eligible San Diegans have received the flu vaccine, and just 7% have been vaccinated against COVID-19. These rates are significantly lower than in previous years, raising concerns among health authorities.
Why are health officials concerned about low vaccination rates?
Health officials are concerned because low vaccination rates can lead to higher transmission of influenza and COVID-19, resulting in increased hospitalizations and strain on healthcare facilities, especially during the holiday season when gatherings are common.
What is the current situation regarding hospitalizations in San Diego?
Recent data indicates a surge in flu cases, with hospitalizations climbing since October. The week ending November 15 saw approximately 160 cases, up from about 60 per week at the start of the month. This uptick is straining local healthcare facilities, prompting the use of overflow tents at hospitals to manage the increased patient load.
What do experts say about the flu season this year?
Dr. Davey Smith, an infectious disease specialist at UC San Diego, highlighted the global trend of rising flu cases, noting that countries like Japan and the UK have reported higher-than-usual death rates. He emphasized the importance of timely vaccination to mitigate severe outcomes.
How can residents protect themselves during the holiday season?
Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19 before holiday gatherings. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, and staying home when ill, can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Vaccination Rates | 22% for flu; 7% for COVID-19 |
| Recent Hospitalizations | Surge in flu cases; overflow tents at hospitals |
| Expert Insights | Global rise in flu cases; importance of timely vaccination |
| Recommendations | Get vaccinated before holiday gatherings |
| Preventive Measures | Good hygiene; mask-wearing; stay home when ill |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego FC Advances to MLS Western Conference Final
Engage with San Diego’s Top Events This Week
San Diego County Urges Vaccinations Amid Rising Illness Cases
San Diego Hosts Halloween Festivities and Entertainment Events
Declining Kindergarten Vaccination Rates Raise Alarm in U.S.
San Diego Faces Fiscal Challenges Amid Budget Cuts
New COVID-19 Vaccine Approved: mNEXSPIKE
FDA Approves New COVID-19 Vaccine mNexspike
New FDA Guidelines Restrict COVID-19 Vaccine Access
Major Changes to COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Announced
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
