Jan 08, 2026 / Physical Wellness

Flu Season – Winter 2026!!

By Michael Burns, CRNP – Nurse Practitioner, Eastern Pennsylvania

Flu season is off to a rough start, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While we expect the virus’s arrival annually, cases are rising faster in comparison with previous years. Flu related hospital admissions are higher than previous years. Here in Pennsylvania, over 20,000 confirmed cases have been reported so far (and there are likely many cases that are unreported).

How Does the Flu Spread?

Flu transmission occurs primarily through tiny droplets when someone who is infected coughs, sneezes, talks or even breathes. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face can also cause spread. Once exposed, symptoms can develop within one to four days (with most people reporting feeling sick at two days). Those infected can begin spreading the virus one day prior to symptoms starting. The flu can continue to spread five to seven days after symptoms begin and even longer in people with weakened immune systems.

How to Stay Healthy and Avoid Spreading the Flu

Flu outbreaks place those with weakened immune systems at risk and significant demands on dedicated healthcare workers that show up each and every day to care for them.

Get Vaccinated

  • The flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent illness and complications.
  • If you haven’t already gotten vaccinated, consider doing so. 

Hygiene

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching your face, nose, eyes or mouth to prevent germ entry.
  • Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then dispose of it right away. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow.

Masking

  • Wearing a mask is strongly encourages when appropriate, especially if you are feeling under the weather, have been exposed to someone who is sick or are visiting someone who is at a higher risk than normal.
  • While masking is mostly voluntary, it can significantly reduce viral spread.

What to do if you or a family member gets the flu

Stay home and rest if you are experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, congestion – these are common flu and respiratory virus symptoms. Drink fluids (water, clear broth, tea with honey) and contact the doctor, especially if you are high risk. Anti-viral medications can be prescribed and work best if started within 48 hours. Over the counter relief (acetaminophen, lozenges, saline spray) can relieve symptoms.

Protect others by staying home until free of fever (without medications) for 24 hours.

Seek immediate care if any of the following symptoms are observed:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Vomiting or dehydration
  • Skin or lips have a bluish appearance
  • Fever or cough that improves and then worsens