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Flu season starts early this year

Posted at 6:20 PM, Oct 05, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-05 18:20:00-04

TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- Health experts are preparing to see one of the worst flu season they've seen in recent years. Flu cases are already popping up across the country and the peak of the season has yet to even start. 

For doctors, it is worrisome to already see patients having the flu. While flu season starts in October, typically early November is when people come in with symptoms. Case numbers for the flu spike in January when it starts getting cold during the winter season. 

Dr. Wade Boggs at the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital said that despite the early start to the season, cases have not been stronger or worse. Conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, enhance the likelihood of a person getting the flu. It is recommended for people over 6 months of age to get vaccinated. It's important to see a doctor within 48 hours of seeing flu symptoms to get the proper medicine and treatment.