Flu season is here. We've examined these 20 claims

As the seasons change, flu activity is increasing in many parts of the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In its Oct. 30 report, the federal agency said influenza activity remained relatively low nationwide but was higher than typically observed at this time of year. The CDC estimated at least 1 million flu illnesses, 16,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths had occurred so far during the 2026-27 season. Over the years, Snopes has investigated a wide range of flu-related claims, from vaccine rumors and questionable home remedies to comparisons with COVID-19, as well as rumors about the 1918 pandemic. As another flu season begins, we're taking another look at 20 articles we've published on these topics: Sources CDC. "Weekly US Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 42, Ending October 24, 2026." FluView, 30 Oct. 2026, www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-42.html. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026. By Aleksandra Wrona Aleksandra Wrona is a reporting fellow for Snopes, based in the Warsaw, Poland, area. Article Tags