An Early Flu Season Means it Might be Time to Think About a Flu Shot

Flu activity is rising earlier than usual in the United States, with Western states seeing increases weeks before the typical start of the season. In an October 7 NPR report, epidemiologists noted that positive flu tests and flu-related emergency department visits have climbed since early September, an unusual pattern that typically begins in the South.

A newly mutated variant that may better evade existing immunity, particularly among teenagers, could help explain the early surge.

Although activity remains low in most regions, infectious disease experts are urging people to consider getting vaccinated earlier this season to help protect against influenza. Read the NPR article here.