it’s possible for you to get the flu in summer, but it’s not very common.
The influenza virus is more active in the fall and winter in the United States.
However, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, worldwide flu patterns have been less predictable.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
This has led to an unusual rise in summer flu cases.
Still, a summertime upper respiratory infection is likely something other than influenza.
This article discusses summer flu and flu-like illnesses.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
It explains why you may get influenza in the summer and lists other illnesses that cause similar symptoms.
It also provides tips for managing cold and flu symptoms in the summer heat.
In the United States, flu season traditionally runs from October to April and peaks between December and February.
In the Southern Hemisphere, influenza is typically active from May to September.
Until then, getting the flu in the summer will likely be more common than in the past.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Summer Flu Symptoms
Symptoms of influenza are the same in the summer as they are in winter.
They include:
Flu symptoms typically lastbetween three days and two weeks.
People can be contagious the day before symptoms appear for up to a week.
However, it’s most contagious during the first three or four days of symptoms.
If you suspect you have the flu, contact your healthcare provider.
Prescription antiviral medications can shorten the duration of the flu.
Other Summer Flu-Like Illnesses
Flu-like symptoms in the summertime are often triggered by something other than influenza.
Theseflu-like illnessescan cause body aches, fever, headaches, and upper respiratory symptoms.
The main difference between the flu and other viral respiratory infections is the onset of symptoms.
Influenza symptoms tend to occur rapidly over the course of a few hours.
Other respiratory infections, like the common cold, gradually build up over a few days.
Other viruses or bacteria can cause flu-like summer illnesses.
Mosquitos and ticks can also transmit infections with flu-like symptoms.
Common Summer Infections
Summer flu-like symptoms are most likely a viral or bacterial infection.
Insect- or vector-borne illnesses are often linked to specific regions.
Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms and may prevent serious complications.
Antivirals must be started within the first two days of symptoms, so don’t delay.
Shivering will raise your core body temperature, making a fever worse.
It may help to fire off the humidifier while you sleep.
Hydration
Keeping hydrated will help relieve congestion.
Drink plenty of water and other fluids.
Suck on ice pops or ice chips.
Try them at room temperature or cool instead.
Electrolyte drinks, like Gatorade or Pedialyte, can also help keep you hydrated in the heat.
These may include:
Summary
Summer flu cases have been on the rise in recent years.
Global flu patterns have become less predictable following the pandemic.
As a result, more people get the flu in the summer than in years past.
Still, flu symptoms in the summer are more likely to be something other than the flu.
Bronchitis, the common cold, COVID, and other viruses can cause flu-like symptoms.
If you suspect you have the flu, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Flu symptoms can feel more miserable in the summer heat.
Drink extra fluid to stay hydrated.
Air conditioning can help you to feel more comfortable.
OTC cold and flu medications can help to relieve summer flu symptoms.
If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
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