MCHD urges residents to stay vigilant as influenza season nears its end 3-20-26

March 20, 2026

MCHD urges residents to stay vigilant as influenza season nears its end

MOBILE, Ala. — As the official influenza season approaches its conclusion on March 31, the Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) is reminding residents not to let their guard down. While influenza activity has declined, the virus continues to circulate in communities across Alabama.

Statewide influenza-like illness (ILI) is currently at 2.88 percent, which is below Alabama’s 2025-2026 seasonal baseline of 3.09 percent. Even so, all districts have reported laboratory-confirmed influenza cases in their communities during the last three weeks, including influenza A/H1N1, A/H3, A, and B.

Recent reports also show that influenza remains active enough to cause outbreaks. During the week ending March 14, nine influenza or influenza-like illness outbreaks were reported, underscoring the need for continued awareness and prevention.

This season has also shown how respiratory viruses can affect access to care across the community. Periods of increased influenza-like illness, along with COVID-19 and RSV, have contributed to higher patient volumes and longer wait times in healthcare settings, reminding residents that prevention remains important even late in the season.

“Although influenza activity is lower than earlier in the season, the virus is still circulating, and we know from recent experience that flu, COVID-19, and RSV can quickly increase demand on our healthcare system,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “Staying alert now can help reduce illness, protect vulnerable residents, and ease the strain on local providers.”

MCHD encourages residents to continue practicing healthy habits, including staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands often, and seeking medical care when symptoms become severe or concerning. These simple actions can help reduce the spread of illness and lessen the burden on healthcare providers as the season comes to a close.