Mild Winter Equals Low Influenza Reports?

Flu season doesn't peak until February, and it can continue on into May.

By: Kris Allred | WSAV-TV
Published: February 01, 2012 | 0 Comments | Post a Comment

This winter, more cities are setting record highs than record lows. It has been so unseasonably warm across many parts of the country.

Another interesting statistic is the low report of influenza virus infections across all 50 states.

So...are these two related?

There are some factors of winter that can help spread the influenza virus. When it's cold outside, people end up in closer quarters with the windows shut to try and stay warm. This can lead to stagnant air that allows the virus to spread with greater ease from person to person.

But all in all...winter weather doesn't play a big part.

Experts say the flu runs in cycles.

So far the virus' activity this season has stayed low through the middle of January. But this doesn't mean much.

Trends over the last 30 years show that flu infections pick at the end of January...peak in February and then continue on into May.

We still have a few months to go.

Still get a flu shot and keep good hygiene. Wash your hands...wash your hands...wash your hands!