Precautions urged in early stage of cold and flu season in Sedgwick County

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - While there have been no reported flu cases in Sedgwick County emergency rooms as of Friday for the 2026-27 cold and flu season, Sedgwick County Health Director Adrienne Byrne said respiratory viruses are beginning to increase ahead of Thanksgiving.

With that, Byrne advised that now is the time for people to take extra steps to stay healthy. Those steps include getting a flu shot and placing extra emphasis on wiping down surfaces and washing hands more often. Another point that may seem obvious, but is emphasized, especially as people begin generally spending less time outdoors, is keeping distance from others if you become sick.

Byrne said RSV, COVID and the flu historically become more prominent in the community around this time of year.

Respiratory viruses expected to increase

“What we’re seeing at the emergency department is that we have a low level of respiratory viruses, but they’re slowly starting to increase,” Byrne said.

Byrne said the county sees a set pattern at this time of year, as other places in the country do. People gather inside, it is colder outside and holiday meals take place.

“We expect to see an increase in respiratory viruses for the emergency department after Thanksgiving,” Byrne said.

Statewide flu numbers

As of the latest data through October, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Influenza Surveillance reported 15 cases of influenza officially recorded across the state: one case in September and 14 in October.

The dominant strain, H1N1 (swine flu), accounts for 14 of the 15 detected cases, KDHE data shows.

Nationally, health experts advise that there is an early start to flu season.

Flu shot recommendation

Byrne said the best case for prevention is to get the flu shot. She said people with questions about it should ask their doctor or the health department.