Question 1

Is it flu season right now?

Accepted Answer

Flu season in the US typically runs from October through March, peaking between December and February. The site shows the current CDC-reported flu activity level for your region so you can get a real-time YES or NO answer based on actual surveillance data, not estimates.

Question 2

I have symptoms — should I get a flu test?

Accepted Answer

If flu activity is elevated in your area and you have sudden fever, body aches, chills, or fatigue, testing is worth doing — especially if you're in a high-risk group. Rapid flu tests are available over the counter and give results in 15 minutes. More importantly: antiviral treatments like Tamiflu work best within the first 48 hours of symptoms, so don't wait. Contact your doctor if symptoms are severe or you're in a high-risk group. Not medical advice.

Question 3

Is it too late to get a flu shot?

Accepted Answer

It's rarely too late. The flu vaccine takes about two weeks to reach full effectiveness. If flu season is still active — which it often is through February or March — getting vaccinated now still provides meaningful protection for the remainder of the season. The CDC recommends vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Not medical advice.

Question 4

When does flu season typically peak in the US?

Accepted Answer

Flu activity in the US most commonly peaks in December, January, or February, though the exact timing varies year to year. Some seasons peak as early as November; others extend through March. The site shows a full-season CDC activity chart so you can see where the current season stands relative to prior years.

Question 5

My child has a fever — is flu going around right now?

Accepted Answer

Check the current flu activity level for your region using the homepage. If activity is Moderate or higher and your child has sudden fever (above 100.4°F), body aches, and fatigue, flu is a real possibility. Children under 5, especially those under 2, are at higher risk for serious flu complications. Contact your pediatrician promptly if symptoms are severe or your child has underlying health conditions. Not medical advice.

Question 6

Who is most at risk from the flu?

Accepted Answer

People at highest risk for serious flu complications include adults 65 and older, children under 5 (especially under 2), pregnant people, and anyone with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system. For these groups, early testing and prompt antiviral treatment is especially important when flu activity is elevated. Not medical advice.

Question 7

How does the CDC measure flu activity?

Accepted Answer

The CDC tracks flu through its ILINet (Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network), which collects weekly reports from thousands of outpatient healthcare providers across the US. The key metric is the percentage of visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) — fever plus cough or sore throat. This site pulls from that data to show national and regional activity levels updated weekly, typically on Thursdays.