How to protect your health as flu activity rises nationwide

Significant levels of illness and hospitalization have been reported nationwide this flu season, but an infectious disease expert says key precautions can help people stay well and continue enjoying daily activities.

Vincent Hsu, MD, AdventHealth’s infection control officer, said the recent uptick in cases closely resembles the trends of last season -- including the prevalence of influenza compared with COVID-19 and RSV, as well as severe illness among children.

Factors like human behavior can make it difficult to predict the severity of a flu season, he said. But what we do know is that much of the current flu activity is being driven by a fast-spreading version of the flu virus known as subclade K.

While the strain shows some resistance to the seasonal influenza vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, Dr. Hsu said the vaccine remains a key tool in preventing severe illness.

“The flu shot doesn’t prevent every infection, but it could potentially save your life,” he said, likening it to wearing a seatbelt. “It doesn’t eliminate every risk, but it can make a critical difference when something goes wrong.”

Even as flu cases rise, Dr. Hsu said it’s still worthwhile to get vaccinated.

“Flu season can last several months,” he said. “Getting vaccinated now can still help protect you and those around you, especially as we expect cases to continue to rise for several more weeks.”

In addition to vaccination, Dr. Hsu stressed basic prevention measures proven to reduce the spread of respiratory illness, such as frequent handwashing, staying home when sick, avoiding close contact with sick people, covering coughs and sneezes, and masking in crowded indoor settings. Good sleep, hydration and nutrition also support immune health.

“These are simple actions, but they matter,” he said. “Everyone needs to play their part to keep their friends, family and community safe.”

Young children, older adults and people who are immunocompromised remain the most vulnerable to severe flu illness. Dr. Hsu said weaker immune responses, aging immune systems and underlying conditions can make it harder for these groups to fight infection.

Parents of younger children should be especially attentive to symptoms and seek care early if concerns arise, he said.

Most people with flu can recover at home, but Dr. Hsu said certain symptoms should prompt a call to a health care provider or a visit for medical evaluation.

Warning signs include difficulty breathing, a persistent high fever, confusion, severe fatigue, dehydration or symptoms that worsen over time. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help reduce illness severity for some patients.

Flu patterns are not the same everywhere. Dr. Hsu said colder, more densely populated regions may see earlier peaks as people spend more time indoors, while warmer states, such as Florida, can experience later or more gradual increases.

“Flu is very regional,” he said. “We don’t see one uniform curve across the country. Different regions may be at different points in the season.”

Historical trends indicate that flu activity often peaks in February but can persist into March or April. Dr. Hsu said he expects cases to remain elevated for several more weeks to months.

Still, he emphasized that the current situation does not signal an emergency.

“This is not a pandemic,” Dr. Hsu said. “It’s a serious flu season, but it’s one we know how to manage.”

His advice to the public is straightforward: Stay informed and take reasonable precautions.

“There’s no reason to panic, but there’s also no reason to ignore what’s happening,” Dr. Hsu said. “Protect yourself, protect others and make thoughtful choices.”