What “Flurona” means for the 2022 pandemic flu season

Flu season here – and we are still in the midst of a pandemic. While experts can’t predict exactly what will happen in the next few months, how people handle the COVID-19 pandemic can have a direct impact on the spread and severity of flu. . And with the arrival of a new buzzword, flurona, people understandably have more questions than ever.

Here’s what experts know so far about this year’s pandemic flu season – and what they recommend to limit the spread of both COVID-19 and flu.

When does flu season start and how long does it last?

In general, flu season begins in the fall and peaks in early winter, with cases tapering off in the late spring months. Neha VyasMD, a family medicine physician at the Cleveland Clinic, says cases can start as early as September and sometimes last as long as May. The exact time frame for when flu cases are Spread start, peak and taper may vary by region.

Follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions are at higher risk of flu complications.

How dangerous is the flu?

First thing to know: No matter how “dangerous” a given flu season is, it’s important to protect yourself – and, as with the COVID-19 pandemic, to prevent the spread to other people. people at higher risk. Flu is common – CDC estimates that millions of people get each year – but it can still land you in the hospital and even kill you. Yes, older adults and young children are examples of people who are more likely to have severe cases, but generally healthy people in their 20s also get the disease.

Dana Hawkinson, MD, assistant professor of infectious diseases at the University of Kansas, said the researchers looked at flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere to understand more about flu season here. However, lower or higher flu rates may be based on public health measures related to COVID-19, it is more important that we follow public guidelines to help prevent the spread. its.

“We hope that public health guidance and adherence to principles such as physical distancing, avoidance of large groups and hand hygiene will have a positive impact on flu rates,” he said.

What symptoms should I watch out for?

Even if your case doesn’t require a visit to the doctor, getting the flu doesn’t require a picnic. Based on CDC, flu symptoms include: