Why do some people think that this year’s flu season is starting early?
Probably because of all the signs that this year’s flu season has already started and it is a little early to be seeing flu already…
Is This Year’s Flu Season Starting Early?
What signs?
Well, for one thing, as you can see above, we are already seeing a few states with low (5 states) and moderate (2 states) levels of influenza-like illnesses.
“Early-season influenza activity is currently higher than typically observed at this time of year.”
Weekly US Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 41, ending October 17, 2026
While that might not seem like anything, just know that at this time of year, all states are typically still reporting minimal levels of influenza-like illnesses.
And there’s more!
Other flu surveillance indicators have also been increasing, including:
the percent of specimens testing positive for influenza
outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI)
emergency department (ED) visits with an influenza discharge diagnosis
laboratory confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations
So, what does all of that mean?
It means that it is a great time to get your flu vaccine if you still aren’t vaccinated and protected!