Flu Cases in Arlington VA: How Acupuncture Can Support Immunity, Recovery, and Prevention

As the holiday season winds down, many people in Arlington, VA and McLean are noticing something else lingering: a high number of flu cases, stubborn colds, and other viral illnesses circulating in the community. Even patients who avoided getting sick during the holidays are now reporting fatigue, lingering coughs, sinus congestion, and weakened immunity.

At this time of year, acupuncture can be a valuable part of both illness prevention and recovery, helping the body regulate immune response, reduce symptom severity, and restore energy after infection.

Why Flu and Viral Illnesses Are So Common Right Now

Late winter is a perfect storm for illness:

• Increased indoor time and close contact

• Post-holiday stress and disrupted sleep

• Cold, dry air affecting the lungs and sinuses

• Depleted immune reserves after months of stress

  
  

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is associated with Lung and Wei Qi (defensive energy) weakness. When Wei Qi is compromised, the body becomes more susceptible to external pathogens—what we think of as colds, flu, and viral infections.

How Acupuncture Helps Prevent Flu and Common Colds

Many patients in Arlington and McLean use acupuncture proactively during flu season. Preventative acupuncture focuses on strengthening the immune system before illness takes hold.

Acupuncture may help by:

• Supporting immune regulation

• Improving circulation of Wei Qi

• Reducing stress, which directly impacts immunity

• Supporting better sleep and recovery

  
  

Preventative treatments are especially helpful for:

• Healthcare and school workers

• Parents of young children

• People who get sick easily or frequently

• Those feeling run down, stressed, or exhausted

  
  

Ideally, preventative treatments are done once every 2–4 weeks during peak flu season.

Acupuncture During the Flu or a Cold

If you’re already sick, acupuncture can still be beneficial—often helping symptoms resolve faster and more comfortably.

During active illness, acupuncture may help:

• Reduce fever, chills, and body aches

• Ease sore throat, sinus pressure, and congestion

• Calm coughing and support lung function

• Reduce inflammation and fatigue

  
  

From a TCM perspective, treatment focuses on helping the body release the pathogen while preventing the illness from going deeper or lingering.

Many patients report feeling relief after just one session, with best results from 1–2 treatments during the acute phase.

Lingering Symptoms After the Flu or Virus

One of the most common things we’re seeing this year in Arlington VA acupuncture patients is prolonged recovery:

• Persistent cough

• Post-viral fatigue

• Brain fog

• Shortness of breath

• Weak immunity following illness

  
  

This is often due to depleted Qi and Yin after the body has fought off infection. Acupuncture can help rebuild what was used up.

Post-illness acupuncture may:

• Restore energy and stamina

• Support lung and immune recovery

• Reduce inflammation

• Help prevent repeat illness

  
  

This phase is especially important for adults who “push through” illness without adequate rest.

Acupuncture as Part of a Holistic Immune Support Plan

Acupuncture works best when combined with supportive habits, including:

• Adequate sleep

• Warm, nourishing foods

• Staying hydrated

• Stress management

  
  

Herbal medicine and dietary guidance may also be recommended on an individual basis to further support immune health.

Acupuncture for Flu Support in Arlington VA and McLean

If you’re in Arlington or McLean, VA and concerned about flu exposure, lingering illness, or low immunity, acupuncture offers a gentle, effective way to support your body—whether you’re aiming to prevent illness, recover more quickly, or rebuild after being sick.

Appointments are available for preventative care, acute illness support, and post-viral recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of very fine needles at specific points on the body to support balance, circulation, and healing. It is commonly used to support immune health, pain, digestion, stress, and overall wellness.

Can acupuncture help with flu symptoms?

Yes. Acupuncture may help reduce symptom severity, shorten illness duration, and support recovery by helping the body regulate immune response and inflammation.

Is acupuncture safe if I’m sick?

In most cases, yes. Treatments are adjusted based on your symptoms and energy level. If you have a high fever or are highly contagious, scheduling guidance will be discussed.

How many sessions do I need?

For prevention, many patients come once every few weeks. During active illness, 1–2 sessions close together can be helpful. Recovery care varies depending on how depleted you feel.

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

Some insurance plans cover acupuncture. Coverage varies, and we recommend checking with your provider. We’re happy to discuss options during scheduling.

Acupuncture for the Cold & Flu