VDH and VHHA Offer Recommendations on Accessing Care and Protecting Health During Respiratory Illness Season

As Flu Cases Rise During Respiratory Illness Season, VDH and VHHA Offer Recommendations on Accessing Care and Protecting Against Illness

January, 22, 2026

Patients Experiencing Flu and Respiratory Virus Symptoms are Encouraged to Take Steps to Protect their Health and Seek Care in the Appropriate Medical Setting

RICHMOND, VA - As communities across the nation and in Virginia experience increased levels of influenza and other respiratory illnesses, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) urge the public to take steps to prevent illness and seek appropriate care, when needed.

Annual flu seasons traditionally coincide with the fall and winter months. The 2025-26 influenza season has seen rising cases in December and early January, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating at least 18 million illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations, and 9,300 deaths from flu so far this season.

In response, hospitals in Hampton Roads and Central Virginia - regions that have experienced elevated flu and respiratory virus rates - recently shared public guidance on masking in clinical settings and general health and safety precautions during this stretch of respiratory illness season.

VDH is also sharing recommendations for healthcare facilities on "Preventing Transmission of Respiratory Viruses in Healthcare Settings" that encourage immunization for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV; respiratory hygiene practices related to mask usage and regular hand washing to limit the spread of illness; and other precautions. The state health department also has information for the public about Respiratory Virus Prevention and an interactive online Respiratory Disease Data dashboard that tracks respiratory illnesses across Virginia.

Most people with flu have mild to moderate illness and can recover at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers. If you get sick with flu symptoms, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care. Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose, muscle aches, chills, fatigue, and, in some cases, vomiting or diarrhea. Emergency warning signs of flu sickness include trouble breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or seizure. Emergency signs in children may present differently.

People experiencing mild to moderate symptoms that are not life-threatening can be safely evaluated and treated at a primary care provider or urgent care facility. If you get sick with flu symptoms and are at higher risk of serious flu complications or are concerned about your illness, call a healthcare provider for advice. Accessing care in the appropriate care setting helps ensure timely treatment for all patients and reduces unnecessary strain on hospital emergency departments. A visit to an emergency room should be reserved only for true emergency situations, for example a person who is having trouble breathing due to an illness or other serious conditions.

"VDH is monitoring the trends of influenza and respiratory illnesses across the Commonwealth," said Virginia State Epidemiologist Laurie Forlano, D.O., M.P.H. "Influenza can have very serious health consequences but there are simple steps people can take to reduce the risk for seasonal flu: get a vaccine, wash your hands, and stay away from others if you are sick. These things can go a long way to keeping your loved ones healthy and safe."

"Hospitals and healthcare providers across Virginia are prepared to care for those who need medical attention during the current respiratory illness season and throughout the year," said VHHA President and CEO Sean T. Connaughton. "We all have a stake in our own health and wellness, which is why it's important for people to take appropriate steps to limit their health risks and to select the appropriate venue for medical treatment in the event of an illness. That includes making informed choices about where to seek care for flu symptoms, which can often be safely and effectively managed in primary care settings, to help protect patients and providers and promote access to healthcare services during periods of high demand."

About VDH: The mission of the Virginia Department of Health is to protect the health and promote the well-being of all people in Virginia. Learn more at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/.

About VHHA: The Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association is an alliance of 117 hospitals and 26 health delivery systems that develops and advocates for sound health care policy in the Commonwealth. Its mission is to achieve excellence in both health care and health to make Virginia the healthiest state in the nation. Its vision is through collaboration with members and stakeholders, to ensure the sustainability of Virginia's health care system, transform the delivery of care to promote lower costs and high value across the continuum of care, and to improve health for all Virginians. Connect with VHHA through Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Maria Reppas, VDH Julian Walker, VHHA
Director of Communications Vice President of Communications
[email protected] [email protected]