Flu and Respiratory Illnesses Rise in Alexandria - Tips to Stay Healthy

Page updated on January 2, 2026 at 1:12 PM
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Flu and Respiratory Illnesses Rise in Alexandria - Tips to Stay Healthy

Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is reporting a rise in influenza (flu) illness in Alexandria.

The number of flu-related emergency department visits in Alexandria more than tripled over the last two weeks of December 2025, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

Bar chart showing a steep rise in diagnosed flu cases in Alexandria EDs and Urgent Cares at the end of December 2025

With this rise in flu and other illnesses, AHD recommends that people take added precautions to stay healthy and stop the spread of germs. 

A New Flu Strain is Causing Illnesses

This winter, many people are getting sick because of a flu strain called subclade K. This strain wasn’t around when this year’s seasonal flu shot was designed.

So, should you still get a shot? 

Yes. It is not too late. The shot still protects against severe illness from subclade K and other strains. Still, if you’re looking for more protection, these healthy habits can also help protect you and stop the spread of germs.  

  • Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with your inner elbow (not your hands).
  • Wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs.
  • Stay home if you’re feeling sick. Stay home until you feel better and have been fever-free for 24 hours.
  • Turn on exhaust fans to circulate fresh air or use an air purifier if you have one. 

What About COVID-19?

COVID cases are up, but flu is causing more cases of severe illness. The good news is that the healthy flu-protection habits can stop COVID too. 

Also, a COVID shot is still available this year and is widely available in Alexandria.

Where Can You Get Seasonal Shots?

Pharmacies and primary care providers offer flu and COVID vaccines. Many also offer the one-time RSV shot for older adults and other high-risk people.

People without insurance can get this season's flu and COVID vaccines at Alexandria Health Department at a sliding scale fee. Call 703.746.4888 for appointments. AHD does not offer the RSV vaccine.

If you’re having a hard time finding a vaccine, call AHD’s call center at 703.746.4988 for help. 

More information is available on the health department’s Flu Season website. 

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you. Please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

For media inquiries only, please contact Eve Elliott at 804.467.5160 or email eve.elliott@vdh.virginia.gov.