January 12, 2026
The flu is spreading quickly nationwide and here in the community. The University of Kansas Health System is experiencing a high volume of patients seeking care for influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
To help protect the health and safety of our staff, patients and visitors, we are taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of flu transmission. Patients and visitors are strongly encouraged to wear masks while in our facilities. If you have a scheduled appointment and are concerned about visiting the health system in person, call your provider to see if a telehealth, or video visit, is appropriate.
Symptoms of influenza
The flu is very contagious and can spread rapidly through the community, households and schools. Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly and can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
Protect yourself against the flu
Being prepared can help you and your family stay healthy during flu season.
Get vaccinated.
Experts say the flu vaccine is one of your best lines of defense. Even if the flu shot does not 100% protect against the current strain of influenza, the vaccination offers partial protection. You may still get the flu if you are vaccinated, but it will decrease your chance of getting severely ill or requiring hospitalization.
Wash your hands.
Practice proper hand hygiene, including using soap and/or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. While you may not be around someone who is actively coughing or sneezing, ill patients have been out in the community and virus particles can drop onto high-touch surfaces like handrails, door handles and shopping carts. Avoid putting your hands in your eyes, nose and mouth when you are out in public.
Wear a mask.
Wearing a well-fitting mask will reduce your chances of getting infected, even if you are in spaces where others are not wearing a mask.
Cover your cough.
Using a tissue or your elbow will assist in blocking germs from spreading into the air and onto surfaces.
Stay home.
Doctors say if you are sick and have symptoms, you should stay home.
Dana J Hawkinson, MD
Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control
I think going back to the basics, be updated on your vaccines. If you haven't received influenza vaccine, you can still get it. There still is time. We still have a few months of respiratory viral season. Those pillars of infection prevention will help reduce your chance of infection. Frequent handwashing. Keep your hands out of your eyes, your nose, your mouth.
Treating the flu
There are at-home tests available for influenza A, influenza B and COVID in one test. You can purchase these tests at most drug stores. If you know early that you have the flu, you can contact your provider for medication. Antiviral medication can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick. They work best when started within 1 to 2 days after symptoms begin.
Most people with flu symptoms get better on their own without needing to visit a doctor. The at-home remedies most often recommended to get rid of flu symptoms include:
- Drinking plenty of water and other fluids
- Getting plenty of rest
- Taking hot showers or baths or using a humidifier
Take good care
It is not too late to get your flu shot. Peak influenza season typically occurs between December and February, though cases can occur year-round and as late in the year as May. Additional flu strains may circulate later in the season and getting the flu shot will offer greater protection and reduce the risk of severe complications.