00:00Does it feel like everyone around you is sick right now?
00:03There's a reason February hits harder than any other month.
00:06If you look at the CDC chart, flu season peaks in February more than any other time of year.
00:11Out of the last 40 seasons, 17 reached their highest flu activity right here in February.
00:18The flu is caused by the influenza virus that infect your nose, throat and lungs.
00:24And February gives those viruses everything they need.
00:27Cold, dry air dries out the lining of your nose, which normally traps germs before they
00:32get in.
00:33When that barrier weakens, the virus has a clear path.
00:36You're also indoors more.
00:38Windows closed.
00:39Heat running.
00:39People close together.
00:40That makes it easier for the flu to spread through tiny droplets when someone coughs, sneezes
00:45or even talks.
00:46Touch a surface, then your face, yeah, that can do it too.
00:49And the virus survives longer in cold, dry conditions.
00:52That's why the February bar on the chart towers over December, January and March.
00:55So if your office, your school or your group chat feels like it's down for the count, that's
01:01why.
01:01If you want to stay off the chart yourself, maybe bring back those elementary school classics
01:05like seizing into your elbow and singing happy birthday while washing your hands.
01:09Cleaning.
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