If it feels like everyone around you is coughing, sneezing, hacking up a lung, or sounds like they're on their last leg, you're not going crazy.  Flu season is doing the absolute most right now and between the weather swings, everyone being back indoors, back to work, and germs traveling faster than ever, it's rough out here.

Let's start with the basics: the flu isn't just a bad cold.  It's a virus that hits your nose, throat, and lungs and can knock you out for a solid week or two.  For some people, it's even worse than that.  Flu season can start as early as October and usually peaks between late December and early April.  This explains why January literally feels like everyone around you is sick!

Read More: Illinois Flu Levels Reach “Very High” as IDPH Issues Warning

The best way to protect yourself is the simplest: get the flu shot.  The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated, including pregnant people, with very few exceptions.  And no, the flu shot can't give you the flu.  Too many people think that!  That myth refuses to die, but it's just not true.  What can happen?  Mild side effects like sore arm or feeling blah for a day.  I'll take that over being flat on my couch for a week questioning life.

Another reason the flu feels extra brutal?  Covid and RSV are still very much in the mix.  Health officials strongly encourage the vaccine to help protect you, and everyone around you.  Even healthy people can end up with serious complications!

The flu can spread through droplets of coughing, sneezing, talking, and yes, even normal breathing.  Touching share surfaces like doorknobs, handrails, or anything in public can also spread it.  So many sure to wash your hands often.

Wash your hands.

Wash your hands.

Wash your hands.

Avoid going out when feeling blah.

Avoid touching your face.

Stay home when you're sick.

Don't make it easier for others to catch what you have!