Chicago's Flu Season Is Taking A Turn
Chicago’s flu cases spike sharply, especially among kids. Here are 7 facts about this tough season and why the flu shot still protects you.
December 23, 2025 •
3 min read
# Chicago's Flu Season Is Taking a Turn — Here's What You Need to Know

If the usual winter sniffles have felt a bit more relentless lately, you're not imagining it. Chicago is facing a flu spike that's got emergency rooms on edge, especially when it comes to the city's youngest residents. Kids under 18 are getting hit harder this season, and the flu is spreading fast after holiday gatherings.
## H3N2 Is Back and Meaner Than Usual
Dr. Emily Landon from University of Chicago Medicine paints the picture: "Flu cases started climbing after Thanksgiving, and we’re bracing for an even bigger jump post-Christmas." The strain sending chills down Chicago's spine? Influenza A’s H3N2 — the one notorious for making people sicker than your average flu bug. It’s the heavy hitter in this season’s flu lineup, showing up in nearly every positive case.
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## Don’t Discount the Flu — It’s No Light Winter Companion
There’s a common misconception that flu is just a mild inconvenience, especially compared to COVID-19. Dr. Landon shoots that down fast: “Flu can be brutal, knocking out young, healthy people and being particularly tough on the elderly.” Hospitals are already seeing a surge in flu-related visits, with the city reporting nearly double the positive tests recently and kids leading the charge.

## The Vaccine’s Role — Why It Still Matters
So, the flu shot isn’t perfect — the match isn’t spot-on for all strains this year, but according to Dr. Landon, "It’s still the best shield against severe illness and hospital trips." Pregnant folks, seniors, and anyone with a weaker immune system reap the biggest benefits. Dr. Kiran Joshi from Cook County’s public health says, “This is our second challenging flu year back-to-back. Lower vaccination rates just help the virus spread faster.”
If last year’s flu jab gathered dust, now’s the moment to roll up a sleeve and make it count.
## How to Dodge the Flu This Season
Vaccination is step one, but there’s more: Masks in packed spots like the ‘L’ or airports help contain droplets, and good old-fashioned handwashing remains a secret weapon. Dr. Joshi reminds anyone feeling under the weather to stay home at least 24 hours after their fever breaks—that’s key to stopping the flu train in its tracks.
Looking to have some <a href="https://bestofchicago.directory/blog/10-free-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-january-2026-to-stretch-your-dollar-and-have-fun">fun on a budget</a> this winter? Experience the best of Chicago in January 2026 for $0.
## What’s Next for Chicago’s Flu Forecast?
Cold weather and holiday socializing create the perfect storm for flu transmission, warns Dr. Brian Borah from the city health department. While flu might feel like a minor setback, it can cause serious complications such as pneumonia—especially for little kids and seniors.
The good news: free flu vaccines are widely available all over Chicago and Cook County. Clinics have made it easy to get protected without hassle or cost.
If I were in your shoes, I wouldn’t wait too long. Swing by a local clinic soon to get the shot before the flu claims more ground this winter.
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