01/07/2026
Flu Fact Sheet 2026
Most cases caused by Influenza A, subtype H3N2 "Subclade K”
How It’s Spread:
- Droplets from sneezing, coughing, and talking
- Touching contaminated surfaces
Contagious Period:
- Typically from about 1 day before symptoms start
- Up to 5–7 days after symptoms begin, sometimes longer
Preventing Spread:
- Wash hands often with soap and water
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue
- Avoid close contact with crowds or infected individuals
- Stay home if you are sick
- Consider wearing a mask if you are high risk, have symptoms, or will be in crowded areas
Flu vaccine recommended by CDC for everyone aged 6 months and older especially high-risk groups
Note:The vaccine may not perfectly match circulating H3N2 strains but still helps reduce severity, hospitalizations, and complications
Symptoms:
- Appear quickly
- Fever (100°F or higher)
- Severe body aches, fatigue, chills
- Sore throat, muffled hearing, headache
- Sneezing, coughing, stuffy or runny nose
- GI upset: cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, reflux
Treatment & Care:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids (broth, water, electrolyte drinks, ice pops, soup)
- Use Tylenol or Ibuprofen for pain and fever relief
- Antivirals (e.g., Tamiflu) may reduce symptoms if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset
- Avoid aspirin and Pepto-Bismol in teens and children due to risk of Reye’s Syndrome
- Helpful remedies: nasal spray, cough drops/syrup, tissues, vaporizing rub (not for children)
When to Seek Medical Help:
- See a doctor if you are elderly, a child, or high-risk; fever lasts more than 3–5 days; or you experience complications or concerns
- Go to the ER if you have:
- Fever ≥ 104°F
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion or dizziness
- Inability to urinate or drink fluids
- Chest pain or pressure
Stay safe and take care!
For more information, visit
A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
