DEERFIELD, Ill. — Flu activity across the United States is about four weeks ahead of recent seasons, Walgreens said Wednesday, when it launched its 2026-2027 Walgreens Flu Index.
The interactive tool tracks flu, COVID-19 and other acute respiratory illness activity nationwide, providing state- and county-level data that Walgreens updates each Monday.
Early data from the index indicate that flu activity is rising across many western states and in Florida. Walgreens said it is dispensing more antiviral prescriptions for the flu than at the same point last year.
Retail purchasing patterns are showing a similar shift. Walgreens reported double-digit year-over-year increases in sales of cold and flu medications, at-home COVID-19 and flu tests, and cough drops and tea.
The Flu Index draws on several data sources, including Walgreens flu and COVID-19 testing, prescription antiviral dispensing, and over-the-counter cold and flu purchases. It assigns weekly activity scores from zero to 10 for each state or territory and for more than 1,500 counties.
The index shows where respiratory illness activity is occurring and how it is changing, rather than measuring illness severity.
“Flu activity can vary significantly from one community to another, and knowing what’s happening locally can make a real difference,” said Rick Gates, Walgreens chief pharmacy & enterprise external affairs officer. “The Walgreens Flu Index gives people timely information to make informed decisions about prevention, including getting vaccinated before flu becomes more widespread in their community.”
As flu activity increases, Walgreens is encouraging patients to get vaccinated. The retailer offers standard-dose flu vaccines, higher-dose vaccines recommended for people 65 and older, and a new mRNA flu vaccine at select locations.
The company said it has increased pharmacy staffing and expanded vaccination appointment availability this season. Patients can schedule appointments in advance or receive flu vaccinations through walk-in service, subject to availability.
Walgreens said its national pharmacy footprint also provides the company with visibility into respiratory illness trends through testing, treatment and symptom management. The retailer operates nearly 8,000 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico.
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