Keeping Influenza Vaccination a Priority Strategy in 2026
As of early January 2026, the 2025–2026 influenza season in the United States is demonstrating widespread and intense activity. Flu activity is climbing sharply across much of the country, with Indiana currently reporting high levels of influenza-like illness. Reports have highlighted increasing hospital pressure, including surges in cases among older adults
There is ongoing circulation of influenza A strains such as H3N2, which disproportionately affect older adults and other high-risk groups. While the full seasonal peak is still unfolding, the intensity and persistence of influenza transmission make this a particularly challenging period for long-term care settings.
In this context, vaccination remains one of the most effective defenses against severe influenza outcomes for both residents and staff. Receiving an annual influenza vaccination significantly reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death, particularly among older adults and individuals with chronic conditions.
Clinical recommendations underscore the importance of offering convenient, on-site vaccination to all healthcare personnel and residents and integrating vaccination into comprehensive respiratory virus prevention strategies that include early testing, antiviral use, and infection control practices
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