Flu Season Starts Early in California: Kids May Be in Danger

California is seeing an early start to flu season. This is causing concern, especially for young children. The flu is spreading quickly in places like the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Orange County. Doctors are worried because the flu season is starting earlier than usual. A new flu strain, called H3N2 Flu A subclade K, is making things worse. This strain appeared late in the summer, after the flu vaccine was already made. It is not clear if the vaccine will work well against this new strain. However, the vaccine still helps prevent serious illness and death.Flu cases are rising in California, but the numbers are still low compared to past seasons. Still, doctors are watching closely. Other countries, like Australia and Japan, have also seen early and severe flu seasons. This makes doctors think California might face a tough flu season too. Last flu season was one of the worst in years, with many deaths. Most of the children who died were not vaccinated. Doctors are urging everyone to get the flu shot, especially kids. But vaccination rates are down this year. This is concerning because the flu can be very dangerous for children. Doctors say it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to work. They recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible. This can help protect you and your family from the flu. If you think you have the flu, see a doctor early. Antiviral medicines can help if taken quickly.