Community Corner

Flu Season Already in Swing in Northern Virginia, DC

2013 flu season starting slower than 2012, but flu levels are already 'moderate.'

While people normally associate the flu with cold weather, flu season is starting now.

“Flu activity most commonly peaks in the U.S. in January or February. However, seasonal flu activity can begin as early as October and continue to occur as late as May,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This year’s flu season is off to a slightly slower start than last year, according to Google Flu Trends, which analyzes data based on searches for influenza and related symptoms.

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That may be a good thing — last year’s flu reached “intense” levels, with local hospitals restricting visits at the height of flu season to prevent an outbreak among patients.

Finding a Vaccine

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The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases recommends getting vaccinated as early as possible. Children under the age of 2 and adults older than 65 are especially at risk for flu-related complications.

Click here and enter your ZIP code to find out where you can get your flu shot.

The Flu or a Cold? Telling the Difference

The Arlington County Department of Human Services website has a chart showing the differences between a cold and the flu.

The flu usually comes with a fever, headache and body aches, all of which are rare with the common cold.

Colds usually comes with a runny nose and watery eyes, which are rare with the flu.

See the full chart here.


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