Flu in Alabama: Is It Still Going Around? March 2026 Update
Is the Flu Still Going Around in Alabama?
Flu is still circulating in Alabama as of late March 2026, though the worst of the 2025-2026 flu season appears to be behind us.
The CDC’s ILINet surveillance network tracks the percentage of outpatient visits for flu-like illness (ILI) in every state. Alabama typically sees higher flu activity than many Northern states due to its position in the Southern flu corridor, where respiratory viruses often circulate earlier and longer.
Check the Alabama flu activity page for the exact current ILI rate, updated every Friday.
Alabama vs. Nearby States
How does Alabama compare to its neighbors? The Southern states often see similar flu patterns, but local conditions can cause differences:
- Mississippi — Alabama’s closest match geographically
- Tennessee — Often tracks slightly ahead of Alabama
- Georgia — Similar climate and flu timing
- Florida — Can see extended flu activity due to year-round travel
Use our national flu map to compare all states at once.
When Does Flu Season End in Alabama?
In the Southeast, flu season typically runs from October through April, with the peak usually in January or February. By late March, most Southern states are on the declining side of the curve.
However, flu can continue to circulate at low levels through May. If you haven’t been vaccinated this season, it’s not too late — the CDC recommends flu vaccination as long as viruses are still circulating.
Other Respiratory Illnesses in Alabama
Flu isn’t the only thing going around. Here’s what else to watch:
- Alabama RSV Activity — RSV hospitalizations
- Alabama COVID-19 Activity — ER visit data
- Alabama Measles Cases — Outbreak tracking
- Alabama MMR Vaccination Rate — Kindergarten coverage
About This Data
Flu data comes from the CDC’s ILINet network, accessed via the Delphi Epidata API. ILI is defined as fever (100F or higher) plus cough or sore throat. See our methods page for full details.
Updated weekly. See the Alabama flu dashboard for the latest data.
See the latest data: Flu Activity Dashboard