HJAR Sep/Oct 2025

Jennifer Dillaha, MD Director Arkansas Department of Health Looking Ahead to 2025–2026 As you know, the timing and severity of flu seasons can be unpredictable. Flu season in the United States typically runs from Octo- ber to May, with peak activity between late November and early February. The highest activity often occurs from mid-December through February. The optimal time to get vaccinated against the flu is September and October. Children 8 years of age and young- er, who may need two doses, and pregnant women in their third trimester, may receive their vaccinations earlier. Timely vaccination reduces missed school and workdays, protects high-risk patients, and supports healthy communities. Protect- ing patients from severe flu illness through vaccination can also go a long way toward reducing emergency department utilization and hospitalizations and reducing strain on other healthcare services. Flu shots are available at local pharmacies, clinics, and the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) Local Health Units. For more information about flu activity, vaccine guidance, ADH flu clinics, and other resources, visit the ADH’s influenza webpage at: https://healthy.arkansas.gov/ programs-services/diseases-conditions/ communicable-diseases/influenza-flu/ n Influenza Hospitalizations by Vaccination Status, Arkansas 2016–2025 Influenza Deaths by Age Group, Arkansas 2013–2025 (As of 7/28/2025) HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS I  SEP / OCT 2025 35