Flu Season isn’t over yet – why you may still catch the flu this month
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on February 19 2026.
We often think of flu season as being over once the weather starts to warm up, but it can extend into February or even March. The flu is not over in the early spring, so you still might be at risk of catching it, even late in the season.
Therefore, it is important to remain cautious and understand how to prevent the flu, particularly if you are at high risk of flu-related complications.
Why the flu lingers into February and March
When does flu season begin, and when does flu season end? Flu season can start as early as October and generally peaks from December to February, but can last into March. During the flu season, the flu virus can mutate, causing it to linger or new strains to appear later in the season.
Some people may have lower immunity if they haven’t been vaccinated or exposed yet. Additionally, as we continue to live our lives, schools, workplaces, and indoor events can help the flu virus spread more easily in late winter and early spring.
Common symptoms of the flu
The flu mostly impacts the respiratory system, but it can leave your whole body feeling unwell. Common flu and influenza symptoms include:
- Body aches and chills: Muscular pain, fatigue, and feeling cold even when warm.
- Cough and sore throat: Persistent cough and throat irritation.
- Fatigue and weakness: Feeling drained, often lasting for weeks after the flu.
- Fever: Often the first sign of the flu, typically high and sudden.
- Headache: Often severe and coupled with fatigue.
- Runny or stuffy nose: Along with sneezing and congestion.
How to tell the difference between a cold and the flu
Colds and the flu can have overlapping symptoms, although typically the flu is more severe.
Cold symptoms come on slowly and may include a stuffy nose, sneezing, and mild fatigue. Flu symptoms come on suddenly, and are usually accompanied by a high fever, body aches, and fatigue. Flu symptoms tend to hit harder and faster, and can leave you feeling drained for much longer.
What to do if you catch the flu later in the season
If you do catch the flu in February or March, you can take the same steps to feel better. These may include:
- Avoid spreading it: Stay home to avoid infecting others and follow good hygiene practices, like handwashing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Flu antiviral medications: If caught early, flu antivirals can lessen the severity and duration of the flu. Medications work best when started within 24-48 hours of the start of flu.
- Know when symptoms are more serious: Get medical care if you develop trouble breathing, chest pain, dehydration, a fever that won’t come down, or symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen.
- Over-the-counter medications: Use fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (according to age recommendations).
- Rest and hydrate: Get plenty of sleep and drink fluids to stay hydrated.
Preventing the flu later in the season
How can you prevent the flu later in the season? The same lifestyle factors that support immune health and reduce your risk of getting sick still apply year-round. These include:
- Boost your immune system: Ensure adequate sleep, hydration, and a healthy diet to support your body’s natural defenses.
- Get vaccinated: It’s still beneficial to get a flu shot, even in late flu season, as flu vaccines can still offer protection.
- Practice good hygiene: Continue washing hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and sanitize surfaces.
When to visit urgent care for flu symptoms
The flu can sometimes become more serious and may require medical attention. Some signs you may need to visit urgent care include:
- Dehydration: Signs like dry mouth, dizziness, or fewer wet diapers (for children).
- High fever: If the fever persists for more than 3 days or exceeds 104°F.
- Severe symptoms: If symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
- Underlying health conditions: If you have chronic health conditions like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes, and the flu seems severe.
- Worsening condition: If symptoms worsen despite at-home care, such as increasing fatigue or severe body aches.
Urgent care professionals are here to help you feel better during flu season and all year long. To get started, find an urgent care center near you and walk in or save your spot online.
FAQs about Flu season
Here are frequently asked questions about when flu season ends and how to prevent the flu.
1. Why is the flu still around in February and March?
The flu can still circulate in February and March because activity often peaks late in the season and continues as long as the virus is spreading in the community. The virus can also mutate to continue to spread.
2. What are the common symptoms of the flu?
Common flu symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, cough, sore throat, and fatigue.
3. How can I tell the difference between the flu and a cold?
The flu has more severe symptoms and usually comes on suddenly, while a cold tends to develop gradually with milder symptoms like congestion and a runny nose.
4. When should I seek medical attention for the flu?
You should seek medical attention if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, severe dehydration, a high fever that won’t improve, or symptoms that worsen after initially getting better.
5. What should I do if I catch the flu later in the season?
If you catch the flu later in the season, stay home, rest, hydrate, use fever reducers as needed, and consider antiviral medication if evaluated early by a healthcare provider.
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