Flu activity is starting earlier than usual this year, with multiple outlets citing a rise in cases and signs of increased community transmission before the typical fall peak. CBS News reports the CDC has seen an uptick in emergency room visits linked to flu. NPR and Medical Xpress similarly note that flu season appears to be building earlier, with some activity picking up in September rather than October or November.

Experts say the earlier start changes when people should get vaccinated. Medical Xpress and NPR both urge people to consider flu shots sooner rather than delaying. NPR - Health adds that this unusual pattern—starting early and appearing first in the West rather than the South—may be influenced by viral changes, including a variant with a mutation that can help the virus evade prior immunity. CBS News also discusses what to know about this season’s circulating strain, framing the guidance around preparedness and prevention.

Across coverage, the common message is that earlier flu circulation makes timely vaccination more important.