Skip to content

The Healthcare News Network

Your daily guide to Medicare, insurance, medicines and staying well

Sunday, October 18, 2026● Updated 6:00 AM ET
Staying Well

Why this flu season started early, and what to do

Published

Four people standing together with their arms around one another outdoors

About 5% of flu tests are now positive, with the H1N1 strain causing nearly all cases and the West Coast hit first. An early start doesn't necessarily mean a worse season, but a shot now and quick treatment with antivirals if you get sick can help.

Source: Forbes

This is a plain-language summary. Read the original source for full details.

More from the October 18, 2026 edition →