Southeast leads rise in respiratory infections

By Daily Sitka Sentinel staff

Alaska Department of Public Health testing shows the spread of influenza A is running ahead of schedule in Southeast and across Alaska this year.

The state’s latest “Respiratory Virus Snapshot” shows that, in the week ending Oct. 3, the department confirmed 272 flu cases across Alaska. That’s up from 19 flu cases in the same period in 2025, the health department said. Of last week’s statewide flu cases, 265 were influenza A, and seven were influenza B.

Southeast is outpacing most other regions with a case rate of 116 (new infection cases per 100,000 residents) in the week ending Oct. 3, the Department of Health reported. Juneau’s case rate was 136.8 per 100,000 residents; Anchorage had a rate of 16.2 cases; Fairbanks 26.7; the Northwest region a rate of 134 cases; the Interior 73.4; Southwest 21.7; Kenai 24.4; Matanuska-Susitna 7.7; and Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta 15.2.

Weekly flu cases rose swiftly across Alaska in late August and early September, department data show. The traditional influenza season runs from October through May.

California, Washington and Hawaii also saw early rises in flu cases this year, which is unusual as waves of new respiratory virus typically start in the South and expand from there.

Also in Alaska in the week ending Oct. 3, the Department of Health confirmed 79 statewide cases of COVID-19, up from 60 the week prior; and three cases of RSV, up from one case the week prior.

“RSV seasonality typically occurs in the Lower 48 from October through March; however, activity in Alaska is distinct, with year-to-year variations that can extend beyond March,” the department website states.

“Respiratory virus activity often occurs year-round and pathogens beyond these three viruses are also present and can cause respiratory illness,” the department states.

“Strategies to help reduce community risk from respiratory illness include the following: staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, practicing good hygiene such as regular handwashing, staying home when feeling unwell, wearing a mask around others when appropriate, and getting tested if symptoms develop.”

• This story originally appeared in the Daily Sitka Sentinel.