Stay Healthy This Flu Season: What You Need to Know
As winter settles in, flu season is beginning to take hold across North America. Health experts are encouraging everyone to stay alert, get vaccinated, and take commonsense precautions to keep themselves and their families healthy. The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe symptoms and, in some cases, lead to serious complications like pneumonia, hospitalizations, or even death (CDC; WHO).
Unlike the common cold, which often starts gradually, the flu tends to strike suddenly with fever, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, muscle aches, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. Most people recover in a week or two, but young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe illness (CDC: 2025–2026 Flu Season).
What We Know About This Year’s Strains
Each year, scientists monitor flu activity worldwide to identify which strains are expected to dominate. For the 2025–2026 flu season, the vaccine was formulated to protect against four main strains: two type A viruses and two type B viruses. Early surveillance data show that influenza A (H3N2) and A (H1N1)pdm09 are leading the season so far, while influenza B (Victoria lineage) has shown signs of increasing circulation later in the season. These strains have been responsible for most of the recent flu activity, and the updated vaccine is providing broad coverage against them (WHO; STAT News).
Experts note that although this year’s vaccine match is good, flu viruses evolve quickly and even in a mild start to the season, infection levels can spike unexpectedly. A “quiet start,” as seen in early fall, doesn’t always mean an easy winter (WebMD; Gavi).
How to Protect Yourself and Others
The single most effective way to prevent the flu and reduce its spread is annual vaccination. The CDC recommends that everyone aged six months and older get a flu shot, ideally by late October, though vaccination throughout the season remains beneficial. Flu shots cannot give you the flu. Instead, they train your immune system to recognize the virus and respond quickly if exposed.
Beyond vaccination, prevention relies on consistent healthy habits. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public. Try to avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, which are common entry points for viruses. If you feel unwell, stay home to protect others. Maintaining good sleep, hydration, and balanced nutrition also keeps your immune defenses strong throughout the cold months (CDC; UT Southwestern).
What to Do if You Get Sick
If you develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, congestion, sore throat, and body aches, you should focus on rest, hydration, and fever relief. Most people recover at home within a week, but if you are in a higher-risk group or develop severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or chest pain, contact a healthcare provider right away. Doctors may prescribe antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which can shorten illness if started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset (CDC; WHO).
A Final Word
While flu season is an annual challenge, preparation and prevention go a long way. Your team at Marigold Healthcare is always available to support you and can offer advice on getting vaccinated, practicing healthy habits, and staying alert to symptoms. Being proactive about your health can help you protect not just yourself but your family and community, too.