The U.S. flu season has arrived on schedule after essentially taking a year off during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic. Flu hospitalizations are rising and the first two child deaths have been reported.
Last year’s flu season was the lowest on record, likely because coronavirus safety measures — such as schools closing and people wearing masks. It's also possible COVID-19 may have pushed aside other viruses.
Health officials say the type of flu circulating this year tends to cause the largest amount of severe disease, especially in the elderly and the very young.
Health officials are urging people to get their flu and COVID-19 shots.