LISTEN: South Africa’s flu season starts earlier than expected
Flu cases normally peak between June and August, but this year’s season began earlier than usual in March.
With South Africa having already entered flu season, a health expert is urging the public not to panic - but to act.
The flu season typically peaks between June and August, but this year it began earlier than usual in March.
According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, Influenza A and B are the most common circulating strains.
“The 2026 season marks the earliest start to the influenza season recorded since 2010, based on pneumonia surveillance data.
“The A(H1N1)pdm09 subtype was the most prevalent among influenza A cases in the pneumonia surveillance programme and public clinics but influenza A(H3N2) is most prevalent in outpatient surveillance in private general practitioner practices,” said the NICD.
RSV and influenza raise concerns for healthcare system pressure
“Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of bronchiolitis and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in young children and can lead to severe illness in infants. It is highly contagious, primarily spreading through respiratory droplets, and re-infections can occur.”
Dr Angelique Coetzee says the early start, and with respiratory syncytial virus also circulating, may increase pressure on the healthcare system.
"It's not more severe or more dangerous than the previous years. There is no other new variant that we have detected so far with the people coming in," says Dr Coetzee.
“So, we know also that most people recover within one week, but in older adults, young children, and people with chronic illnesses, it can unfortunately still lead to serious complications."
Health experts urge vaccination and preventative measures
Dr Coetzee says simple steps, like wearing a mask, can help slow the spread.
"Influenza is a serious viral infection. If you think you're not feeling okay, you have body aches and pains, or you have a temperature, it's better to just be checked out by your doctor.
Please remember there are no antibiotics for the flu.
"This is a viral infection. There are no antibiotics for RSV. If you're not feeling too sick, please rest, drink plenty of fluids, manage your fever and pain, and stay home until your fever improves."
Coetzee stresses that annual vaccination remains the most effective protection, even after the season has started.
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