In the United States, influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May, with peak flu activity between December and March.
What’s more, flu season in the Southern Hemisphere often indicates what’s to come in the United States. Data revealed that the 2024 flu season in the Southern Hemisphere was similar to previous flu seasons. With the potential for this year’s flu season to be severe in the United States, vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the flu, especially severe disease and hospitalization.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the flu caused between 9 million and 41 million illnesses annually between 2010 and 2023.
How to Stay Healthy
The flu can cause serious complications for people of any age, but children and older adults are especially vulnerable. To help keep your household healthy this flu season, consider these tips:
- Get the flu vaccine. Your best chance of preventing the flu is to be vaccinated. The CDC recommends that anyone aged 6 months and older get a flu shot every year.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay away from others when you feel unwell. Because flu, cold and COVID-19 symptoms are similar, doctors say it’s best to get tested to know what you have.
- To protect against germs, wash your hands often with soap and warm water. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow, and dispose of tissues immediately.
- Get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to boost your immune system.
- Exercise regularly to strengthen your body and make it more resilient against infections, including the flu.
- Stay hydrated and eat a nutritious diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
Experts recommend getting vaccinated against the flu by the end of October, so don’t delay getting your shot. Contact your doctor today to learn more about vaccines.
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