Will New Flu Viruses Circulate This Season?

Flu viruses are constantly changing so it's not unusual for new flu viruses to appear each year.  For more information about how flu viruses change, visit How The Flu Virus Can Change.

When Will Flu Activity Begin and When Will It Peak?

The timing of the flu is very unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season.  Most seasonal flu activity typically occurs between October and May.  Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February.

What Should I Do To Protect Myself From Flu This Season?

CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. 

People should begin getting vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, ideally by October, to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins.  However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it's not too late to get vaccinated.

In addition to getting a season flu vaccine if you have not already gotten vaccinated, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs.  If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading flu to others.

When Should I Get Vaccinated?

CDC recommends that people get vaccinated against flu soon after vaccine becomes available, preferably by the end of October. 
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu.