Flu season may be starting early; experts say get vaccinated now

Flu season may be beginning early this year, prompting experts to recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible, according to recent reports from Nature. Tests for the flu are showing unusually high positivity rates during the early fall on the U.S. West Coast and in the United Kingdom. In Japan, outbreaks in August and early September forced some schools to close just as students returned from summer break.

If the current trend continues, the 2026 flu season could be one of the earliest on record in the United States, with cases typically peaking in December and January. The predominant strain in early U.S. cases is H1N1, a shift from the previous season when H3N2 dominated. In a typical year, H3N2 accounts for nearly all non-B influenza cases.

Despite the early start, it is too soon to determine how severe the season will be. The vaccine developed for this season appears to be a good match for the H3N2 and influenza B viruses currently circulating, though its effectiveness against H1N1 is less certain. Even a less-than-perfect match offers significant protection.

Dr. Alex Greninger, a virologist, advises that anyone who has not already done so should get vaccinated as soon as possible. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months and older, ideally by the end of October, with a particular emphasis on those at higher risk of serious complications, such as young children, pregnant women, adults over 65, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Babies younger than six months are too young for the vaccine, so caregivers should get vaccinated on their behalf. Preventing the spread of germs can be achieved through standard hygiene measures.