2025 – 26 Flu Season: What You Need To Know
As we enter the 2025-26 flu season, it’s essential to equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools needed to stay healthy.
Each flu season presents its own set of challenges, and staying informed can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. In this guide, we will cover vital information about the flu and prepare for a safe and healthy season ahead.
2025 – 2026 Predicted Flu Strains
- A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
- A/Croatia/10136RV/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and (Updated)
- B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus
*Data from CDC 2025 Copyright: Link Here
2025 – 2026 Flu Season Outbreak Prediction
The CDC expects that the respiratory virus season in the U.S. for 2025–2026 could cause hospitalizations. These could be from COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The levels may be similar to last year’s peak. This outlook relies on historical data, expert evaluation, and predictive modeling.
To keep the public and healthcare providers informed, the CDC will update this respiratory season outlook every two months. They will update it more often if needed to reflect changing conditions and new data.
*Data from CDC 2025 Copyright: Link Here
Who Should Get The Flu Shot?
Many health experts recommend the flu shot for people. It helps reduce the spread of the virus. It also protects those who are most at risk.
Generally everyone should receive their annual flu shot, however the following individuals should prioritize getting vaccinated:
- Children: Young children are at a higher risk for severe flu complications.
- Adults aged 65 and older: Older adults often have weaker immune systems. They are more likely to get serious flu-related problems.
- Pregnant women: Vaccination is safe during pregnancy and helps protect both the mother and the baby.
- People with long-term health issues, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weak immune systems, should receive vaccinations. This helps lower their risk of serious illness.
- Healthcare workers: To protect both themselves and their patients, healthcare professionals should get the flu shot.
- Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities are more likely to get the flu and its complications.
- Caregivers should also get vaccinated to prevent spreading the virus among those in high-risk groups.
What Are The Symptoms of The Flu?
The symptoms of the flu typically include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
The Flu Can Cause Secondary Infections and Other Health Problems:
The flu can cause other infections and health problems. This is especially true for people with weak immune systems or existing health issues.
Make sure you visit a healthcare professional if you suspect you have an infection or health complications from the flu.
Some of the common complications include:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Sinusitis and Sinus Infections
- Ear Infections
- Worsening of Chronic Conditions
- Myocarditis
- Kidney Problems
- Dehydration
What Is The Treatment For The Flu?
The treatment for the flu primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms and helping the body recover. Here are the main approaches to treating the flu:
- Prescription antivirals such as Tamiflu
- Rest and hydration
- Symptomatic relief: over-the-counter medications, pain relievers, decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants, etc.
- Home remedies: warm liquids, humidifiers, saltwater gargles
- Avoiding further complications: monitor symptoms and isolate if necessary
- Consult your healthcare provider
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Seek medical help if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Persistent fever or severe vomiting
- Confusion or lethargy
- Symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and worse cough
By taking these treatments and self-care steps, you can manage flu symptoms better and support your recovery.
