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Illinois Flu Season Extends, Concerns Grow

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 8/illinois-flu-season-extends-concerns-grow.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 18:12 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Illinois, UNITED STATES

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL - February 18th, 2026 - Illinois public health officials are issuing a continued warning about the unusually persistent 2026 flu season, with indicators suggesting activity will likely extend well into the spring. Despite entering February, cases remain stubbornly high, raising concerns among healthcare professionals and prompting renewed calls for preventative measures.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to report widespread influenza activity across the nation, but Illinois is demonstrating a disproportionately high incidence rate, particularly affecting pediatric populations. This surge, occurring later in the season than many anticipated, is prompting an investigation into potential contributing factors - including the evolution of circulating strains and the level of immunity within the population.

"We're seeing a lot of cases, and the positivity rate remains elevated," stated Kristen Roberts, spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Public Health, in a press conference earlier today. "We are continuing to see cases, and frankly, there is no clear end in sight at this moment. We initially hoped for a typical decline post-January, but that hasn't materialized. We're monitoring the situation very closely."

The latest data from the Illinois Department of Public Health reveals a concerning 17% of tested specimens returned positive for influenza during the most recent week, a figure significantly higher than the average for this time of year. Experts suggest this isn't simply a matter of increased testing; hospital emergency rooms and urgent care centers across the state are reporting increased patient volumes related to influenza-like illnesses.

Why is this flu season lasting so long?

Several theories are being explored. Firstly, the dominant influenza strains circulating this year - a combination of A/H3N2 and a resurgent B/Victoria lineage - appear to be less well-matched to the current vaccine formulation than in previous years. While the vaccine still offers protection, its efficacy is reduced, meaning vaccinated individuals may still contract the virus, although typically with milder symptoms. Secondly, the relaxation of COVID-19 mitigation measures - such as masking and social distancing - has likely contributed to increased transmission of all respiratory viruses, including influenza.

Finally, some epidemiologists point to a potential "immunity debt" among younger children who haven't been exposed to as many common viruses in recent years due to pandemic restrictions, making them more susceptible to infection. The long-term effects of the pandemic on population immunity are still being studied.

What are the symptoms, and what should you do if you suspect you have the flu?

The symptoms of influenza are often similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, making self-diagnosis difficult. Common indicators include:

• Fever: A sudden onset of temperature over 100.4?F (38?C).
• Cough: Typically dry and persistent.
• Sore Throat: Often accompanies a fever and cough.
• Body Aches: Muscle and joint pain are common.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and weak.
• Headache: Can range from mild to severe.
• Occasionally: Some individuals may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, especially children.

Health officials strongly advise anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact their healthcare provider promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment with antiviral medications (like oseltamivir or zanamivir) can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness, particularly for high-risk individuals - including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

Prevention Remains Key

Despite the ongoing cases, health officials reiterate that preventative measures remain crucial. The flu vaccine, while not foolproof, is still the best defense against the virus. In addition to vaccination, individuals are encouraged to practice good hygiene, including:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
• Staying home if you are sick.
• Regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is continuing to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as new information becomes available. Residents are urged to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families during this prolonged flu season.