Fighting the Flu
More than 6 million people in the United States have caught the flu this season. This is according to a report released on January 11. The report is by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Flu activity is widespread in many states,” Dr. Alicia Fry told the New York Times. Fry works for the CDC’s influenza division.
The flu is a disease. It is caused by the influenza virus. It is contagious. Symptoms include fever and chills. Flu season typically runs from October to March in the U.S. Last year’s flu season had the highest number of reported cases since 2009.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is a good idea. It will lower your chances of getting the flu. But a flu shot is the best way to reduce the risk. “It’s really not too late to get vaccinated,” Fry says.