ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Georgia is experiencing a sharp spike in flu cases this season, with health officials placing the state in the highest activity category for influenza-like illness.

The flu arrived earlier than expected this year and is spreading quickly across all age groups, from young children to older adults. The main strain causing concern is Influenza A, specifically the H3N2 variant, which doctors say is more contagious and often more severe than other strains.

The Phoebe Health System has seen a steady increase in cases since mid-December, earlier than the typical peak of the January or February flu season.

“It kind of took off in mid-December. A little bit surprising to us because generally a little bit later, you know, possibly January or February, before we started seeing the numbers,” said Dr. James Black, Director of Emergency Medicine at Phoebe Health System.

While flu-related deaths have been reported nationwide in both adults and children, no deaths attributed primarily to influenza have occurred locally through the Phoebe system.

This year’s dominant strain, H3N2, is causing traditional flu symptoms, including coughing, fever, runny nose, congestion, and sore throat. However, doctors are also seeing more gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

“It appears now that A appears to be a little more virulent, but also causing, also more contagious as well,” Black said.

The highly contagious nature of this variant means entire households are being affected. Medical providers are now treating all family members when one person tests positive due to the close proximity and high transmission rate.

Reports suggest this year’s flu vaccine is not a perfect match for the circulating H3N2 strain, but doctors still recommend vaccination.

“I still think it’s very important for a variety of reasons,” Black said. “It will help your immune system to be vaccinated, even if you don’t have this specific variant. The research and evidence has shown that if you’re vaccinated, it tends to shorten your course and lessen the severity of symptoms.”

The vaccine also provides protection against influenza B and other strains that are still circulating.

Health experts emphasize that prevention comes down to basic hygiene practices: frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks when ill or around vulnerable people, and staying home when sick.

Medical providers recommend seeking care early, as antiviral medications can lessen effects and shorten the course of illness when started promptly. People experiencing difficulty breathing or severe symptoms should seek emergency care immediately.

The outbreak has affected people across all age groups, with particular spread among school-age children in daycare settings and working adults who have frequent contact with others. Hospitalizations have occurred in both pediatric and adult populations.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2026 WALB. All rights reserved.