OHA Urges Flu Vaccinations as Winter Illnesses Increase
Health officials warn flu activity is rising ahead of holiday gatherings, with cases expected to grow into early spring.
PORTLAND, Ore. — With influenza activity climbing ahead of winter holidays, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is urging residents to get vaccinated as the state heads into the months when flu cases typically rise.
Hospitalizations remain low for now, but the percentage of positive flu tests is increasing each week. Health officials expect flu activity to continue building until its usual peak in early spring.
“The flu season generally continues into the spring, which means flu activity will continue to increase for many months,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. “That’s why it’s never too late to get the flu vaccine.”
Chiou emphasized that vaccination is particularly important as people gather indoors for holiday events. “People will leave Thanksgiving, not only with leftovers, but also with the flu,” he said. “It’s not too late to get your flu shot, especially before the upcoming holidays. The flu shot is the best way to help make sure you don’t miss out on holiday festivities or get other people sick.”
OHA reports that last year’s flu season was the worst Oregon has experienced in recent history. Current flu data is available in the agency’s weekly FluBites report and on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, and in some cases serious complications requiring hospitalization. National medical organizations — including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Family Physicians — recommend flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older.
Nearly one million Oregonians have received a flu shot so far this year, about 5% fewer than at this time in 2024. Vaccination rates have been declining for several years, according to OHA.
Certain groups face higher risk for severe illness, including adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant people, and individuals with underlying health conditions. However, health officials note that severe flu can affect anyone, even those who are otherwise healthy.
Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines are available through health care providers, county public health clinics, federally qualified health centers, and many pharmacies. Parents and caregivers seeking options for children can call 211 or visit 211info.org for clinic locations.
