In 2025-2026, medical professionals will flu season It’s not over yet. In fact, Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer and pediatrician at Bluebird Kids Health in Florida, says people should prepare for the virus to linger into the warmer months.
Doctors say this season is following a historical trend, as influenza A is usually the first and most aggressive to circulate.
“The 2025-2026 influenza season is following this pattern, with influenza A cases emerging early in the season and causing the majority of illness,” Glazier told FOX News Digital.
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“However, now, in mid-February, we are seeing the emergence of influenza B infections, and in addition, influenza B infections continue to be a major presence. influenza type A“This is not unusual and will probably continue until spring,” he added.
The timing of the waves is typical, but the strength is not. This year was marked by the emergence of a new influenza A H3N2 variant known as subclade K.
According to Glazier, this stock has proven particularly difficult for several reasons. Its newness means people have little built-up protection from previous infections. Decrease in vaccination Nationally.
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Current vaccines have also shown reduced effectiveness against this particular strain.
“Although this year was expected to be a milder influenza season than in recent years, the severity ratings determined by the CDC rank this year as one of the most severe.” For kids” warned Glazier, noting that already this year around 60 child deaths have been caused by subclade K strains.
Glazier said it’s “absolutely” not too late this season to get a flu shot.
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“Even if you have experienced it before, Influenza A infectionyou can still get an influenza B infection,” he said.
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Even if a vaccine is not fully compatible with the circulating strain, vaccination remains the best way to minimize the duration and severity of illness, experts say.
symptoms of spring allergies Glazier said the symptoms may be different from those of the flu.
The flu is characterized by high fever, chills, body aches, night sweats, headaches, and abdominal pain and is not caused by seasonal allergies.
Glazier urges parents not to ignore persistent or recurring fevers, especially if they don’t respond to acetaminophen or ibuprofen. He also emphasizes monitoring children’s hydration.
“Children are more susceptible to dehydration when they get sick than adults, which makes their symptoms worse,” he says.
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Adequate rest, hand hygiene, hydration and nutrition It helps strengthen the body’s immune system and defenses against viruses, the doctor added.
