Flu Is Spreading Early This Year, and Older Adults Face the Highest Risk

Flu season has arrived early this year, and older adults face the highest risk. In its weekly report posted October 30, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said flu activity is still low across the country as a whole but has been climbing since late summer, which is earlier than usual. The CDC estimated at least 1 million illnesses, 16,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths from flu so far this season.

Most cases are tied to an H1N1 strain. Researchers at Northeastern University reported that the circulating virus carries a mutation that may help it get past some of the immunity people built from a past infection or an earlier shot. The CDC said hospital admission rates for mid October reached their highest point for that time of year since the 2010 to 2011 season.

Doctors say November is not too late to get a flu shot, because flu usually keeps spreading into the winter and spring. It takes about two weeks for a shot to build up protection, so the sooner the better.

The type of shot matters for older adults. The CDC recommends that adults 65 and older get one of the stronger flu vaccines, such as a high-dose or adjuvanted shot, rather than a standard dose. These are built to create a stronger response in older bodies. A newer flu vaccine made with mRNA technology is also approved for adults 50 and older.

RSV is another winter risk. The CDC recommends a single dose of an RSV vaccine for adults 75 and older, and for adults 50 to 74 who face a higher risk of severe illness. For now this is a one-time shot, so people who already got one do not need another.

Cost is usually not a barrier. Medicare Part B covers one flu shot each season at no cost to you when the provider accepts assignment, which means the provider agrees to the Medicare approved amount. Medicare Part D covers the RSV vaccine. Many pharmacies and clinics give these shots without an appointment.