Flu Season Returns to San Francisco: Here’s Where to Find Vaccines

Flu season is back in San Francisco.

According to data released Wednesday by the city’s Department of Public Health, the rate of tests positive for influenza reached 5% as of Dec. 6.

Though cases are still low overall, they are on the rise — and the state’s respiratory virus dashboard indicates hospitalizations are “expected to increase.” Dr. Farrell Tobolowsky, an infectious disease physician for the city’s Public Health Department, said the holidays are prime time for gathering with loved ones and sharing germs.

“We suspect that this is definitely a time where there will be risk of transmission. We also know that people gather with people from other parts of the country where flu activity may actually be higher than it is in California at this time,” Tobolowsky said.

Earlier this year, the state recorded one of its worst flu seasons on record. Early mild symptoms can include a fever, runny nose, cough, body aches, sore throat or fatigue. More severe symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea.

Historically, these seasonal upticks of the flu can last for weeks to months. According to Dr. Tobolowsky, cases are lower than they’ve been at this time of year in the past, meaning the winter flu season could simply be beginning later than expected.

Older adults, infants and toddlers, and people with chronic medical conditions are most at-risk for complications associated with the illness.

SFDPH recommended the 2025-2026 shot for anyone over six months old who has not already received it. Experts usually suggest that people get their shot in the fall, ahead of the coming season’s peak. You can find access to a vaccine here, and many local pharmacies accommodate walk-ins.

SFDPH also suggests the use of high-quality masks — especially if you’re sick — but also beneficial even when you’re not. KN95 masks have been proven to lower the risk of spreading respiratory illnesses, and all mask types are especially recommended in crowded indoor spaces.

And as usual, the SFDPH urges good hygiene practices such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water, and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

While sick, it’s important to stay home from school or work until symptoms resolve. Being fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication is a good indicator of when to return to ease back into your typical routine.