'October is the ideal time to get vaccinated': Flu season is kicking off early, experts say

In October, flu season is beginning earlier than usual in some parts of the United States, according to health experts. Flu activity typically starts in late fall, peaking between December and February. During the week ending September 26, 3.4% of respiratory samples tested by clinical labs were positive for flu, seven times higher than the rate this time last year.

The early onset is primarily occurring in Western states like Washington, California, and Arizona, where emergency department visits diagnosed as flu have increased significantly. Health experts advise getting a flu shot in October, as the vaccine's protection builds up over two weeks, and it is especially recommended for high-risk groups such as children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.