Just as spring arrives, a familiar threat resurfaces—flu cases are on the rise again. With nearly every state seeing a surge, it's clear that the flu isn't backing down.

How prepared are you to protect yourself and your loved ones this season?


The latest wave of influenza has led to a nearly 30% increase in cases compared to the previous week.

This spike has had tangible consequences, including temporary school closures in various regions, such as Texas and Tennessee.

Dr. Rabia de Latour, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health, shared with CBS Mornings Plus that the season has seen more than 20 million cases, 250,000 hospitalizations, and over 11,000 deaths.


These numbers are reminiscent of pre-pandemic flu seasons, but they come with a twist.

During the height of COVID-19, society's heightened health precautions inadvertently suppressed not only coronavirus but also flu and common cold cases.

This has led to what Dr. de Latour refers to as an “immunity gap.”

With society's immune defenses slightly lowered and vaccination rates not as robust, we find ourselves more susceptible to the flu.


The short answer is no—it's not too late.

Dr. de Latour emphasizes that as long as the flu virus is circulating, vaccination is encouraged.

The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, and it's a critical step in protecting not only yourself but also those around you who may be more vulnerable to the virus.

Influenza can be detected in most infected individuals one day before symptoms begin and can remain contagious for five to seven days after falling ill.

At-home flu tests, a relatively new tool in our health arsenal, can empower individuals to identify their illness and take appropriate measures to prevent its spread.



“Information is power,” says Dr. de Latour, and knowing you have the flu can motivate you to isolate and protect others, such as the immunocompromised or young children in your community.

While there's no cure-all for the flu, antiviral medications like Tamiflu can reduce symptom duration.

However, these treatments are generally recommended for high-risk individuals, including the immunocompromised, very young children, pregnant women, and those with severe comorbidities like heart disease or diabetes.


In addition to the flu, the US is witnessing an uptick in whooping cough cases, with a 27% increase from the previous week.

This respiratory illness is particularly dangerous for infants and young children due to their small airways.

The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough), is an effective preventive measure, but infants under two months old are not eligible for it, leaving them vulnerable.

In light of these developments, it's crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your health and that of your family:

1. Get vaccinated for both the flu and whooping cough if you haven't already.
2. Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.
3. Stay informed about the prevalence of flu and other illnesses in your area.
4. If you fall ill, consider using at-home tests to confirm your illness and consult with your healthcare provider about treatment options.
5. Keep your immune system strong with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Remember, staying informed and taking action are the best defenses against the flu and other seasonal illnesses.

Let's keep our guard up and our spirits high as we look forward to healthier days ahead.
Have you or a loved one been affected by the flu this season? What measures are you taking to stay healthy? Do you have any tips for our community on how to navigate this second wave of flu? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below.