As cooler weather sweeps across the US, cold and flu season is upon us once again. This annual health challenge typically starts in October and peaks from December to February, though the timing and intensity vary by region. Here’s a quick look at how cold and flu season works, its impact on children, and how you can protect your family, regardless of where you live.

What Causes Cold and Flu Season?

Cold and flu season is fueled by respiratory viruses like rhinovirus (common cold) and influenza. These viruses thrive in colder weather, especially in dry air. As people huddle indoors to avoid the cold, close contact makes it easy for viruses to spread.

In colder northern states, like New York or Minnesota, flu season tends to start earlier and be more intense. In the South, with milder winters, the season often begins later but can last longer. Coastal and western states, such as California and Washington, see more moderate flu seasons but can still experience high outbreaks in cities.

How It Affects Children

Children are particularly vulnerable during cold and flu season. Their developing immune systems make them less capable of fighting off infections, and schools and daycare centers are hotspots for germs.

• Frequent Illness: Kids can catch colds several times a year, especially in colder regions where they spend more time indoors.
• Severe Flu Symptoms: The flu can hit kids harder than adults, leading to high fevers, body aches, and even complications like pneumonia.
• Missed School: Cold and flu season often leads to missed school days, which can impact learning and disrupt family routines.

As cooler weather sweeps across the US, cold and flu season is upon us once again. This annual health challenge typically starts in October and peaks from December to February, though the timing and intensity vary by region. Here’s a quick look at how cold and flu season works, its impact on children, and how you can protect your family, regardless of where you live.

What Causes Cold and Flu Season?

Cold and flu season is fueled by respiratory viruses like rhinovirus (common cold) and influenza. These viruses thrive in colder weather, especially in dry air. As people huddle indoors to avoid the cold, close contact makes it easy for viruses to spread.

In colder northern states, like New York or Minnesota, flu season tends to start earlier and be more intense. In the South, with milder winters, the season often begins later but can last longer. Coastal and western states, such as California and Washington, see more moderate flu seasons but can still experience high outbreaks in cities.

How It Affects Children

Children are particularly vulnerable during cold and flu season. Their developing immune systems make them less capable of fighting off infections, and schools and daycare centers are hotspots for germs.

• Frequent Illness: Kids can catch colds several times a year, especially in colder regions where they spend more time indoors.
• Severe Flu Symptoms: The flu can hit kids harder than adults, leading to high fevers, body aches, and even complications like pneumonia.
• Missed School: Cold and flu season often leads to missed school days, which can impact learning and disrupt family routines.