Charts showing hockey-stick growth in both diagnosed cases and ER visits, from BPHC. ILI=“Influenza-like illnesses.”
The Boston Public Healt...
Charts showing hockey-stick growth in both diagnosed cases and ER visits, from BPHC. ILI=“Influenza-like illnesses.”
The Boston Public Health Commission reports that flu and flu-like infections are surging a month earlier than last winter - especially in children and teens.
This uptick in flu cases is occurring a month earlier than last season, when Boston did not hit these numbers until January.
Based on numbers reported through testing of wastewater in sewers across Boston, most of the city is now rated as having "moderate" flu levels, with Allston/Brighton rated "high" and Hyde Park "low."
BPHC says only 30% of Bostonians have gotten a flu shot this season. VaccineFinder lets you find pharmacies and other providers in or near your Zip code that offer flu shots. The city is also planning a series of flu clinics for 2026.
Individuals at high risk of complications from respiratory infections, including people under two or over 65 years of age, pregnant people, immunocompromised individuals and people with chronic illnesses, should seek medical care if they develop flu-like symptoms or are exposed to flu; early testing and antiviral treatment of flu and COVID can prevent severe illness and hospitalization.