How to Safely Get a Massage During Flu Season

Massage therapy is one of the best ways to support your body through the colder months. It helps reduce stress, ease muscle tension, improve sleep, and support overall wellness—all things your immune system loves. But during flu season, it’s natural to wonder: Is it safe to get a massage right now?

The short answer is yes, with the right precautions. Here’s how to enjoy the benefits of massage therapy during flu season while keeping yourself, your therapist, and your community healthy.

1. Don’t Come in Sick (Even “Just a Little”)

This is the most important rule. If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms—fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, coughing, congestion, or extreme fatigue—it’s best to reschedule your appointment.

Massage can increase circulation and lymphatic flow, which is great when you’re healthy, but when you’re actively sick, it can make symptoms feel worse and increase the risk of spreading illness. A good rule of thumb: wait until you’re symptom-free for at least 24 hours before coming in.

Most massage practices would much rather reschedule you than risk getting someone else sick, so don’t feel guilty about canceling. It’s part of being a responsible client.

2. Ask About Cleaning and Sanitation Practices

Professional massage therapists follow strict hygiene standards year-round, but during flu season many practices take extra precautions. This often includes:

• Washing hands thoroughly before and after every session

• Using freshly laundered sheets and face cradle covers for each client

• Disinfecting massage tables, door handles, and commonly touched surfaces

• Using high-quality cleaning products between appointments

If it gives you peace of mind, it’s perfectly okay to ask about sanitation policies when booking. A reputable therapist will be happy to explain their process.

3. Wash or Sanitize Your Hands Before Your Session

You touch a lot of surfaces before walking into a massage room—door handles, phones, car keys, credit cards. Taking a moment to wash or sanitize your hands when you arrive helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps the treatment space cleaner for everyone.

This small step goes a long way in shared wellness spaces.

4. Communicate Openly With Your Therapist

If you’re getting over a recent illness, feeling run down, or have concerns about your immune system, let your therapist know before the session begins. They can adjust your massage accordingly—using gentler techniques, avoiding lymphatic overload, or focusing on relaxation rather than deep work.

Clear communication helps your therapist support your body safely and effectively.

5. Support Your Immune System Outside the Massage Room

Massage works best as part of an overall wellness routine, especially during flu season. To get the most benefit:

• Stay well-hydrated before and after your session

• Prioritize sleep

• Eat nourishing foods

• Manage stress (massage helps a lot with this!)

Regular massage may help lower stress hormones like cortisol, which can indirectly support immune health. While massage isn’t a cure for illness, it can be a powerful tool for keeping your body resilient during busy, high-stress seasons.

6. Respect Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies

Many massage practices have clear policies around illness, especially during flu season. These policies exist to protect clients and therapists alike. If you wake up feeling unwell, reach out as soon as possible. Most therapists deeply appreciate proactive communication.

Choosing to stay home when sick is not an inconvenience—it’s a sign of care and respect.

7. Trust Your Instincts

If you’re unsure whether you should keep your appointment, listen to your body. When in doubt, reschedule. Massage will still be there for you when you’re feeling better, and you’ll enjoy it far more when your body is ready to receive it.

The Bottom Line

Massage during flu season can be both safe and beneficial when everyone does their part. By staying home when sick, practicing good hygiene, communicating openly, and choosing a professional therapist who prioritizes cleanliness, you can continue caring for your body without unnecessary risk.

Your health—and the health of your community—comes first. When you feel good, massage can help you feel even better.