Health officials urge early vaccination as US flu season nears

Health authorities in Los Angeles warn that flu cases are starting to increase across western parts of the United States. Early protection can help people avoid severe sickness before winter illness rates peak. The number of sick patients is already beginning to climb nationwide.

It is too early to predict whether this season will arrive early across the country. National flu activity remained low on Sept. 26, according to wastewater surveillance data from most states. Positive respiratory tests began rising near late September.

Influenza usually circulates in fall and peaks between December and February. Annette Regan, an adjunct associate professor of epidemiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, said present conditions warrant prompt action.

Health authorities often advise people to get their flu vaccine by the end of October – but as an epidemiologist focusing on vaccines and infectious diseases, I see the uptick in activity as a sign that there’s no time like the present.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classified the 2025-2026 period as moderately severe. That term brought over 32 million cases, 390,000 hospitalizations and up to 81,000 deaths. Cases spiked in November and quickly peaked in December.

Low vaccination rates and a poor vaccine match contributed to that severity. For the 2026-27 period, all three vaccine components were updated to match current circulating viruses. Interim guidance recommends immunisation for most people aged 6 months and older.

Professional medical groups endorse this guidance for children and adults:

• American Academy of Pediatricians
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• American Academy of Family Physicians
• Infectious Diseases Society of America

Several vaccine types are available. People aged 65 and older can receive enhanced injections designed for stronger immune responses. FluMist offers a nasal spray option for people aged 2 through 49.

Flucelvax uses mammalian cells instead of eggs and is cleared for people 6 months and older. People with egg allergies can safely receive any shot. In August 2026, the Food and Drug Administration cleared mFLUSIVA for people aged 50 and older.

That shot is the first mRNA influenza option. Sites may not carry it yet. Patients can check local Los Angeles pharmacies, doctors or Moderna online locators for supply.

Vaccines take about two weeks to build protection. Shots protect high-risk groups, including pregnant people, young children and those with weak immune systems. Updated COVID-19 shots arrived in September and can be given at the same visit.

The Food and Drug Administration evaluates medical products for public use before clinics administer doses. Federal health agencies review disease trends to issue guidance during winter respiratory seasons.

Regan said shots reduce illness severity when circulating strains do not shift significantly. Residents in western regions like Los Angeles can ask healthcare providers about the best options for their households.