New CDC surveillance data shows influenza activity beginning to increase nationally. Here is what current research says about elderberry, what it cannot tell us yet, and how families can build a thoughtful seasonal routine.
Flu activity is still low across the United States, but it is beginning to rise. That is the main takeaway from the CDC's October 2, 2026 FluView report, covering the week ending September 26.
Clinical laboratories reported that 3.4% of tested respiratory specimens were positive for influenza. These are surveillance results from submitted samples, not an estimate that 3.4% of Americans have flu. The figures are preliminary and may change as reporting continues.
For families in Johnson City and Northeast Tennessee, the report offers a timely reason to review fall routines. It does not establish a local outbreak, and it does not change what has been proven about elderberry.
A seasonal headline is not a new elderberry finding
When respiratory illnesses return to the news, familiar questions about herbal products return, too. Can elderberry prevent flu? Does it shorten symptoms? Is every elderberry syrup the same?
Those questions deserve separate answers. A rise in flu activity is a public health development. It is not evidence that a particular syrup prevents infection or treats illness.
A review published February 10, 2026 in Inflammopharmacology explores elderberry's traditional uses, plant chemistry, and biological research. It describes compounds such as phenolics and anthocyanins, as well as substantial variation between plant parts and extraction methods. It is a broad review, not a new clinical trial of The Syrup Shop's products.
The human evidence includes uncertainty and conflicting results
A 2021 systematic review led by L. Susan Wieland of the University of Maryland School of Medicine included five randomized trials. Its findings suggested possible reductions in cold or flu symptoms, but uncertainty remained.
Two small influenza studies involving 87 participants suggested improvement roughly 2.7 days earlier with the studied elderberry products. The reviewers rated that estimate very low certainty because of study limitations, small numbers, and disagreement between results.
The encouraging findings are only part of the picture. A separate randomized influenza trial published September 14, 2020, led by physician Michael Macknin, also enrolled 87 participants. It found no significant benefit from elderberry extract. Symptoms became mild or absent after an average of 5.3 days in the elderberry group versus 4.9 days with placebo.
These were different trials testing specific preparations. Taken together, they support careful language rather than a promise that elderberry will work for every person.
What this means for your family's routine
The CDC's respiratory-virus immunization guidance emphasizes staying current with recommended immunizations to lower the risk of hospitalization and death. Ask your healthcare provider what is recommended for your household. Elderberry products do not replace vaccination, testing, prescribed treatment, or medical care.
If you enjoy herbal syrup as a food, look at the complete ingredients and follow the label. Research on one extract cannot establish the effects of a different finished syrup, especially a blend with several ingredients.
At The JC Syrup Shop, our original Elderberry Syrup contains elderberries, local raw honey, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, apple cider vinegar, and citrus essential oils.
“Every batch is still made by me in small quantities,” says Jessica Edmisten, owner of The JC Syrup Shop. That hands-on perspective describes how our products are made. It is not a claim that our formula has been clinically tested.
Keep product care and safety simple
The NIH's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health cautions against raw or unripe elderberries and advises talking with a healthcare provider about herbal products when taking medicines. Safety information during pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited.
Our honey-containing syrups are not for infants younger than 12 months, consistent with CDC guidance on honey and infant botulism.
After opening, refrigerate our original Elderberry Syrup and consume it within 8 weeks. ElderMac and Pink Sumac Syrup must be refrigerated after opening and consumed within eight weeks. Marking the opening date on the bottle makes the deadline easier to remember.
For a closer look at the evidence and how to compare products, read Does Elderberry Syrup Work? What the Research Really Says. Our storage and freshness guide covers caring for your bottle.
Simple ingredients. Thoughtfully crafted.
About the author: Jessica Edmisten is the owner and product maker behind The JC Syrup Shop in Johnson City, Tennessee. Her firsthand expertise is in the Shop's ingredients, small-batch production, and product care. This article was prepared with AI-assisted research and drafting, with publication authorized by Jessica. Scientific information comes from the linked sources; it is not individualized medical advice.