10/08/2025
The flu is a common contagious respiratory illness that spreads through the air and contaminated surfaces. Flu season is typically October through April, with peak flu activity occurring during the winter months (December, January, and February). Flu symptoms can develop rapidly and may leave you feeling exhausted and miserable for one to two weeks.
Symptoms of the flu include:
Fever and/or chills
Sore throat
Cough
Runny nose and/or congestion
Muscle or body aches
Fatigue
Headache
You may not experience all of these symptoms if you have the flu. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of other illnesses, such as COVID-19, RSV, the common cold, or strep throat. The only way to know is to get tested. Check with your local pharmacy. They may offer rapid on-site testing and/or over-the-counter home testing kits for COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and strep throat.