After one of the most severe flu seasons in recent years, health experts are urging Californians to prepare for another difficult outbreak by getting vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19. Medical specialists caution that early immunization is especially important for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
Jeffrey Silvers, an infectious disease specialist based in Sacramento, explained in a recent webinar that Northern California could face a challenging flu season once again. He noted that last year’s flu outbreak was among the most severe in decades, leading to higher rates of hospitalizations, more pediatric deaths, and a surge in patients seeking medical care for influenza symptoms. According to Silvers, much of the outlook for the United States can be inferred from Australia, which typically experiences its flu season months earlier.
Australia’s early flu season in 2025 was reported as severe, though the vaccine match appeared promising. This has led experts to predict a potentially heavy flu season in the Northern Hemisphere. While exact outcomes cannot be guaranteed, Silvers emphasized that preparation and vaccination are the best defenses. The flu season in California generally begins in late October, but doctors advise getting vaccinated earlier, since it takes around two weeks for antibodies to develop and provide protection.
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over six months of age, with particular emphasis on children under two, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. For some, complications from influenza can be life-threatening. Silvers highlighted cases in which unvaccinated pregnant women contracted influenza and suffered tragic losses, underscoring the importance of immunization.
In addition to traditional flu shots, individuals between ages 2 and 49 have the option of FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine that contains a weakened version of the influenza virus. This method does not cause infection but stimulates the body to build immunity. FluMist can be administered at a doctor’s office, a pharmacy, or even ordered online for at-home use after completing a short medical questionnaire.
Silvers also stressed the importance of staying protected against COVID-19. While overall cases and fatalities have decreased nationwide since 2022, periodic surges continue to occur, particularly during summer and winter. At Sutter Health locations in Northern California, a summer spike in COVID-19 cases recently peaked and has since slowed. However, health officials remain cautious, as the unpredictability of viral mutations makes it difficult to forecast the severity of the coming winter.
The COVID-19 vaccine, like the flu vaccine, is recommended for all individuals six months and older. High-risk groups, including seniors, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions, are especially encouraged to receive updated doses. California’s Department of Public Health has confirmed that most insured residents can access COVID-19 vaccines at low or no cost, with new supplies expected to arrive soon.
Silvers noted that while Sutter Health had not yet received updated COVID-19 vaccine supplies at the time of his talk, they were expected shortly. Meanwhile, flu vaccines are already available at many medical centers across the region, with appointments being scheduled to encourage early immunization.
Public health experts stress that vaccination remains the most effective method for reducing the spread and severity of both influenza and COVID-19. Preventive measures such as handwashing, avoiding crowded indoor gatherings during peak flu season, and maintaining healthy lifestyles are also recommended to strengthen overall immunity.
The concern about another severe flu season stems not only from recent trends in Australia but also from the lingering vulnerabilities of communities recovering from the past year’s outbreak. Hospitals, health systems, and schools are bracing for potential strain if vaccination rates fall short. Early preparation is critical to avoiding another surge of preventable illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.
For Californians, the message from health professionals is clear: schedule your flu shot as soon as possible, and make plans to receive the COVID-19 vaccine once supplies are distributed. By taking proactive steps now, residents can help reduce the impact of another potentially severe flu season and protect both themselves and their communities.
