Cold Flu
Why back-to-school colds spike, and how the weather helps
September 14, 2026, 5:58 am EDT
Cold and flu season doesn't wait for winter. The back-to-school wave hits while it's still warm outside, as dozens of kids enter close quarters with recirculated indoor air. The upside: The warm weather outside can help. Warm seasonal air carries more natural humidity than harsh winter air, working like a vaporizer to loosen mucus, soothe raw nasal passages and calm a dry cough. Brief time in late-season sunshine helps restore vitamin D, which supports the immune cells that fight off viruses. And sitting in warm air can relax tense muscles and ease the mild aches and chills of a low-grade fever more comfortably than staying shut inside an air-conditioned room.
Flu season doesn't follow the calendar — it follows the humidity
September 12, 2026, 8:04 am EDT
Flu season doesn't run on the calendar — it runs on the humidity and temperature, spreading faster when the air turns very dry and cold or very warm and wet. As the climate keeps changing, some regions could have milder flu seasons while others may see outbreaks grow stronger. Watch to see how the changing climate could impact flu season.
Flu season isn't about the date — it's about the humidity
September 12, 2026, 7:16 am EDT
Humidity and temperature help dictate where and when we see flu outbreaks. And as our climate changes, so will flu season.
Your Daily Flu Risk Isn't Random — It's Forecasted
April 30, 2026, 9:26 pm EDT
The Weather Company’s Cold and Flu Tracker doesn’t just tell you it’s flu season; it uses real-time weather data and human behavior to calculate your daily illness risk. From cold fronts to school closures, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how this powerful tool works to help you make decisions about your health.
Is It The Flu, COVID, Norovirus Or RSV?
March 17, 2026, 8:26 pm EDT
As the post-holiday viruses spread around the country, health experts are warning of a ‘quad-demic’ of illnesses that could infiltrate your home and family. How can you tell them apart? Here’s a handy video fact sheet with some answers.
January Warmth Can Be Your Flu Shield And Workout Ally
March 13, 2026, 8:04 am EDT
Flu infections are rising fast across more than two dozen states. But avoiding germs indoors doesn't mean you have to give up on your New Year’s resolutions to exercise more. That’s where unusually warm January temperatures come in.
Should You Call In Sick? Signs You're Too Contagious To Work
March 4, 2026, 9:21 pm EST
Cold and flu season got you down? Here’s how to tell if you should tough it out at work or stay home and protect your coworkers.
Here’s What To Do If You Think You Have The Flu
March 1, 2026, 2:19 pm EST
If you’re feeling sick and think it may be the flu, here’s what you should know.
Foods That Soothe When You Have The Flu
February 25, 2026, 7:21 pm EST
Fill your plate with healthy foods that can deliver the many nutrients needed to fight the flu. Here’s how to choose a balanced meal that can soothe and heal.
I’m Sick With The Flu: Should I See My Doctor?
February 13, 2026, 9:14 am EST
Influenza comes on suddenly, which is different than a cold, and you’ll likely feel much worse with fever, aches, pains and headaches, among other ailments. Which flu symptoms mean it’s time to see the doctor? Here’s what to know about flu complications.
