The National Institute for Communicable Diseases says the 2026 flu season has started earlier than expected, with its official onset recorded around 9 March. The early arrival has raised concerns about a possible increase in infections ahead of the usual winter peak.
Experts are urging the public to get vaccinated without delay. Cheryl Cohen from University of the Witwatersrand says it is unusual for influenza to begin this early, as the season typically peaks during winter after the Easter holidays.
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