Flu Season Expected to Continue Through Spring with New Variant Concerns

Health experts are warning Americans that the 2025-2026 flu season is far from over, with predictions that the virus will persist well into the warmer months. According to Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer and pediatrician at Bluebird Kids Health in Florida, the current season is following historical patterns but with heightened concerns about emerging strains.

“The 2025-2026 flu season has followed the typical pattern, with influenza A cases presenting earlier in the season and causing the majority of illnesses,” explained Dr. Glazier. “Now, however, in the middle of February, we are seeing the emergence of influenza B cases, in addition to the continued predominant presence of influenza A, which is not unusual, and which will most likely continue into the spring months.”

While the timing of these flu waves aligns with historical trends, this year’s severity has raised significant concerns among medical professionals. The season has been marked by a new influenza A H3N2 variant known as Subclade K, which has proven particularly challenging for several reasons.

The novelty of this strain means the population has limited immunity from previous exposures. Compounding this issue is a nationwide decrease in vaccination rates, along with reduced vaccine effectiveness against this specific variant. The combination of these factors has led to a more severe flu season than initially anticipated.

“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. Glazier cautioned. He noted that approximately 60 pediatric deaths have already been attributed to the Subclade K strain this year, highlighting the strain’s serious impact on vulnerable populations.

Despite being well into the traditional flu season, health professionals emphasize that it’s not too late to get vaccinated. “Even if you experienced an earlier influenza A infection, you can still get an influenza B infection,” Dr. Glazier stressed. Vaccination remains the most effective tool to minimize both the duration and severity of illness, even when the vaccine doesn’t perfectly match circulating strains.

As spring approaches, many may confuse flu symptoms with seasonal allergies. Dr. Glazier emphasized that the flu can be distinguished by specific symptoms that allergies don’t cause: high fever, chills, body aches, night sweats, headaches, and stomachaches. These markers can help individuals recognize when they should seek medical attention rather than assuming they’re suffering from seasonal allergies.

Parents are urged to be particularly vigilant about monitoring children for persistent or recurrent fever, especially if it doesn’t respond to common fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Dr. Glazier also emphasized the importance of monitoring hydration in children.

“Children become dehydrated more easily when sick compared to adults, and this worsens symptoms,” he warned. Maintaining proper hydration is a critical component of managing flu symptoms and supporting recovery.

Public health officials continue to recommend preventative measures beyond vaccination. Adequate rest, consistent hand hygiene, proper hydration, and good nutrition all help strengthen the body’s immune system and its defense against viral infections.

The ongoing presence of both influenza A and the emerging wave of influenza B underscores the importance of continued vigilance, even as temperatures rise and thoughts turn to spring activities. For vulnerable populations, including young children and the elderly, the threat of serious flu complications remains significant through the coming months.

Healthcare systems are preparing for continued flu cases while also managing seasonal allergies and other springtime health concerns. Public health messaging is focused on ensuring that Americans understand the flu season isn’t finished simply because winter is ending—a misconception that could leave many unprepared for late-season infections.