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Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza, with flu-like illnesses rising sharply among children and multiple outbreaks reported in the community and schools.

The Fairfax County Health Department said in a February 7, 2025, letter that emergency departments and urgent care centers have recorded an increase in patients with flu-like symptoms.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Influenza spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.

People who are ill should remain home and avoid contact with others until their symptoms are improving and they have gone at least 24 hours without a fever.

Prescription antiviral medication can lessen the severity of influenza and shorten the illness. Families should promptly contact a healthcare provider if a student develops symptoms, particularly when the child is at greater risk of serious complications.

Health officials said vaccination can still provide protection during the active flu season. Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older, even though vaccination is generally encouraged in the fall.

Residents can also limit the spread of influenza and other germs by covering coughs and sneezes, washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when necessary and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Adults should supervise younger children who use hand sanitizer.

Anyone who must be around other people while sick should consider wearing a mask to reduce transmission.

Children and teenagers who may have influenza should not receive aspirin or products containing salicylate, including Pepto-Bismol. Giving those products to someone age 18 or younger with the flu can cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious complication.

People with questions should contact their healthcare provider or school public health nurse.