Flu hits North Alabama hard: Here are the symptoms to watch out for, when to go to ER

The entire state of Alabama is considered to have a “high” level of flu activity at the end of 2025.

Huntsville Hospital leaders say that they’re seeing the same trends in their flagship city.

Leaders report an increase in flu cases both in overall numbers and severity in Huntsville. They say it is consistent with regional and national trends.

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They are seeing a higher volume of people in the emergency department for the flu, as well as other seasonal respiratory illnesses.

Patients with mild to moderate symptoms are advised to seek treatment from their primary care provider or an urgent care clinic.

“Emergency rooms should be reserved for severe or life-threatening symptoms to ensure timely care for those who need it most,” said Huntsville Hospital leaders in a statement.

They encourage anyone experiencing flu symptoms to start treatment early, as antiviral medications are most effective when used at this stage.

Leaders encourage parents to contact their providers or an urgent care as soon as their children start experiencing symptoms, especially since an 11-year-old and a 14-year-old have died from flu-related complications in Alabama in the last week.

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They say to bring a child to the emergency room immediately if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Bluish lips or skin
• Chest pain
• Unresponsiveness
• Seizures
• Signs of severe dehydration