If it feels like more people than usual are getting sick this winter, you’re not imagining it. The 2025–2026 flu season is shaping up to be one of the most severe in decades, with widespread activity reported across the United States and a sharp rise in flu-related doctor visits and hospitalizations.
Health experts warn that flu levels have reached their highest point in more than 25 years, and the season may not yet have peaked. This surge is placing added strain on health care systems and increasing the risk of serious complications, especially for older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.
During a flu season this intense, access to timely, in-home acute care matters more than ever. At Restore First Health, our acute care team helps patients manage flu symptoms at home, providing evaluation, testing, and treatment when symptoms go beyond routine self-care and require medical attention.
Understanding flu symptoms, knowing when to seek care, and having access to acute medical support can help reduce complications and keep patients safely out of the hospital whenever possible
Why the Flu Is Hitting Hard This Year
Several factors are contributing to the severity of this flu season, including the circulation of aggressive flu strains and increased community spread. Across the country, healthcare providers are reporting high volumes of patients seeking care for flu-like illness, respiratory symptoms, and fever.
Unlike a common cold, influenza can progress quickly and lead to serious complications if not properly managed.
Watch: How to flu-proof your home.
Common Flu Symptoms to Watch For
Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and may feel much more intense than a typical cold. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Extreme fatigue or weakness
While many people recover with rest and fluids, flu symptoms can worsen quickly. Paying close attention to how symptoms evolve is critical. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to help reduce the risk of severe flu illness, hospitalization, and complications, particularly for older adults and individuals with chronic conditions.
Warning Signs That Require Prompt Medical Attention
Certain symptoms may indicate a more serious illness or complications such as pneumonia. Seek urgent medical care if you or a loved one experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Severe weakness or difficulty staying awake
- Signs of dehydration, such as very little urination or dry mouth
- Symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen
High-risk individuals, including older adults, and people with chronic conditions, should seek care earlier rather than waiting.
How Restore First Health’s Acute Care Team Plays a Critical Role During Flu Season
During a severe flu season, access to timely acute care can make a significant difference in outcomes. Our acute care team helps bridge the gap between home care and emergency departments by bringing high-quality medical care directly to patients, without unnecessary delays or hospital visits.
Through Restore First Health’s acute care program, patients can receive prompt evaluation of flu-like symptoms in the comfort of their own home, including in-home testing for both flu and COVID-19 when clinically appropriate. This allows our providers to quickly identify the cause of illness and determine the most effective course of treatment.
When indicated, our team can treat symptoms and initiate antiviral therapy early in the illness, which may help reduce symptom severity, shorten recovery time, and lower the risk of complications. Patients are also closely monitored for any signs of worsening illness, with coordination of care if escalation is needed.
Our focus is on early intervention, preventing complications, and supporting safe recovery at home, especially for older adults, individuals with chronic conditions, and others at higher risk during this intense flu season.
Final Thoughts
This flu season is a reminder that influenza is not just a seasonal inconvenience. It can be a serious, fast-moving illness with real risks. Recognizing symptoms early, monitoring changes closely, and knowing when to escalate care are key to protecting your health and the health of those around you.
Restore First Health’s acute care team is here to support patients when flu symptoms go beyond routine home care, providing timely, compassionate care in the comfort of the patient’s home.
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CNN Health. (2026, January 5). Flu reaches highest levels in 25 years, health officials say.
https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/05/health/flu-highest-level-25-years
Cleveland Clinic. Influenza (Flu): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu
Mayo Clinic. Influenza (Flu): Symptoms and Causes.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719