Storyline
2026 US flu season
One page that accretes the verified record as the story develops. Every fact keeps its date and its sources.
3 DAYS
21 FACTS
2 EVENTS
2 SOURCES
FIRST ENTRY OCT 21
OCT 23 · Day 3
Flu cases rise on US west coast earlier than usual
In the previous two flu seasons, California's influenza test positivity hovered slightly above 1% in early October.
California's influenza test positivity rate was 9.65% as of 10 October 2026.
The American Medical Association recommends flu shots for all people 6 months and older.
OCT 21 · Day 1
Doctors recommend vaccinations as flu season hits early
Dr. Sharon Vuppula said the flu vaccine is about 40-60% effective at preventing the flu.
Anyone six months old and above is eligible for the flu shot.
It takes about two weeks to build an immune response to the flu shot in the body.