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The flu has arrived early in Washington state
KUOW • • health
Key Points:
- Respiratory illnesses, including the flu, are increasing early in Washington state, with flu cases peaking sooner than the usual December or January timeframe, according to Dr. Helen Chu of the University of Washington.
- Emergency room visits for confirmed influenza have surged, with 233 visits in the week ending September 19, 2026, compared to 31 visits during the same week last year, prompting recommendations for earlier flu vaccination.
- New flu vaccine options this year include an mRNA-based vaccine and a take-home nasal mist, and experts warn of the possibility of multiple waves of flu and COVID-19 infections before the situation improves.
- Dr. Chu criticized the current lack of a unified national vaccine policy following the disbanding of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices in 2025 and expressed concern over misinformation spreading under the current administration, which may be undermining public confidence in vaccines.
