Full Breakdown
Flu Season May Extend into Spring: Health Experts Warn
2/26/2026, 1:28:08 AM
Current Flu Season Overview
Health experts are cautioning that the 2025-2026 flu season is not yet over, with expectations that the virus may persist into the warmer months. Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer and pediatrician at Bluebird Kids Health in Florida, noted that the current season is following historical trends, where influenza A typically emerges first and most aggressively. As of mid-February, there is a notable increase in influenza B cases alongside the ongoing prevalence of influenza A, which is consistent with past flu seasons.
Emergence of New Strains
This year has been particularly marked by a new variant of influenza A, known as Subclade K. Dr. Glazier highlighted that this strain poses unique challenges due to its novelty, resulting in a population with limited immunity from previous infections. Additionally, there has been a nationwide decline in vaccination rates, which has contributed to the severity of the current flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified this season as high severity, especially for children, with approximately 60 pediatric deaths attributed to the Subclade K strain.
Vaccination and Prevention
Despite the challenges posed by the new strain, Dr. Glazier emphasized that it is not too late to receive the flu vaccine. He pointed out that even individuals who have previously contracted influenza A can still be susceptible to influenza B. Vaccination remains a crucial tool in reducing the duration and severity of flu symptoms, even if the vaccine does not perfectly match the circulating strains.
Symptoms and Care Recommendations
Dr. Glazier outlined the symptoms of the flu, which include high fever, chills, body aches, night sweats, headaches, and stomachaches—distinct from seasonal allergy symptoms. He urged parents to be vigilant about persistent or recurrent fevers in children, particularly if they do not respond to common medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. He also noted that children are more prone to dehydration when ill, which can exacerbate symptoms.
Conclusion
To support recovery, Dr. Glazier recommends adequate rest, hydration, hand hygiene, and proper nutrition to strengthen the immune system against viruses. As the flu season continues, health experts advise the public to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their health and that of their children.
Verbatim Quotes
- "The 2025-2026 flu season has followed this pattern, with influenza A cases presenting earlier in the season and causing the majority of illnesses." — Dr. Michael Glazier, Chief Medical Officer, Bluebird Kids Health
- "Although this was anticipated to be a more moderate flu season compared to recent years, the severity assessment determined by the CDC now ranks this as a high severity season for children." — Dr. Michael Glazier
- "Even if you experienced an earlier influenza A infection, you can still get an influenza B infection." — Dr. Michael Glazier
- "Children become dehydrated more easily when sick compared to adults, and this worsens symptoms." — Dr. Michael Glazier
