Fall is settling into Washington DC, bringing cooler temperatures, shorter days and, for many people, the return of something less welcome: the flu
As people head back to school, spend more time indoors and gather for the holidays in the coming months, viruses such as influenza can spread more easily.
So when does flu season actually arrive in DC?
There isn't one specific date when flu season starts. Influenza viruses circulate year-round, but flu activity typically begins increasing in October and reaches its peak during the winter.
Across the U.S., flu activity most often peaks between December and February, although the timing can vary from year to year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
That means September doesn't
necessarily mark the start of peak flu season in DC, but residents may begin seeing more cases in the weeks ahead.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Flu symptoms often come on suddenly. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or feeling feverish and chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
Some people with the flu can also experience vomiting or diarrhea, though that is more common in children.
And you don't necessarily have to have a fever to have the flu.
But how do you know it's the flu and not a common cold or COVID-19? They often present the same symptoms, but flu symptoms tend to appear more suddenly and can include more significant aches, fatigue and fever.
Testing can help determine whether influenza or COVID-19 is causing your illness.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When is flu season in Washington DC? Do I have flu symptoms?
