This past week, cases of the flu have risen. Some media outlets have seen this as an indicator of a potential second peak during this year’s flu season—whether or not this is actually the case is uncertain. Regardless of the answer, understanding the flu, its symptoms, and how to both prevent and treat it are essential to keeping us healthy at this time.
What is the flu?
The flu, also known as influenza, is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. There are many types of influenza viruses, with some being more contagious than others.
Common symptoms of the flu are:
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue
- Body or Muscle Aches
- Headaches
- Sweating and Chills
- Possible vomiting and diarrhea, as well as fever
Usually, flu season occurs during the fall and winter months and peaks sometime between December and February.
The flu can be contracted in many places, whether that be on the bus or somewhere on campus. Typically, a flu infection subsides in around two weeks. However, there is potential for flu symptoms to cause long-term complications.
What are some flu complications?
It is possible that, if symptoms are too severe, the flu can lead to pneumonia, as well as life-threatening problems such as heart, brain, and muscle tissue inflammation. The flu can also lead to organ failure and, in some cases, even death. Existing chronic illnesses—like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease—can also be worsened by flu symptoms.
What is the difference between the cold and the flu?
While both the common cold and flu are contagious respiratory illnesses, the flu is caused by an influenza virus, whereas the common cold can be the result of a wide variety of other viruses. Because of the similarities between a common cold and the flu, it can be difficult to tell the difference between either illness. However, flu symptoms tend to be more severe and come on abruptly, while cold symptoms often include a runny nose.
The best way to determine if you have a cold or the flu is to get tested.
How to treat the flu?
While some people recover from the flu at home with over-the-counter medications, antiviral drugs prescribed by a doctor can aid recovery and are most effective when taken close to the start of flu symptoms. If your symptoms are severe, it is advised that you see a healthcare professional.
How to prevent the flu?
Perhaps more important than treating the infection itself is protecting against it.
Washing hands, wiping down commonly touched surfaces, and wearing a mask in large groups are effective measures to prevent contracting the flu.
What does the current flu situation look like?
In recent months, the subclade K viruses, which are related to influenza A (H3N2) viruses, have been the most prominent strain of the flu this season. Subclade K viruses are the cause of around 90% of flu cases this season. Some media outlets have even begun calling this strain the “super flu” because of how contagious it is.
From October 1, 2025, through January 24, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there have been around 20 million flu illnesses, 270,000 flu hospitalizations, and 11,000 flu deaths.
This past week, there has also been a slight increase in influenza B activity in the United States, perhaps hinting at a second flu peak during the season.
At this time during the flu season, only around 45% of children and 46% of adults have received the flu vaccine. While these numbers are comparable to those of last year, this still means that over half of the children and adults in the United States are not vaccinated against the flu.
While vaccines don’t completely stop you from contracting the flu, they can prevent more severe complications caused by flu symptoms.
What now?
Though we are already in peak flu season, it is not too late to get vaccinated, especially as a second peak may be underway.
If you have the flu, it is best to stay away from others, wear a mask, and get rest until you no longer have symptoms or a fever without medication for at least 24 hours. And, as always, seek medical attention when needed.
