Coughing, wheezing, hacking, signals Flu season. Can you still protect yourself?

Ick. Flu viruses circulate year-round, and flu activity can last as late as May in the United States. Help!

Never fear, the U.S Food and Drug Administration has this to say.

Haven’t had your flu shot yet? It’s not too late. And there are still good reasons to get one. Flu — more formally known as influenza — is a serious viral disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Although every flu season is different, flu has resulted in anywhere from 9.2 million to 35.6 million illnesses; 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations; and 12,000 to 56,000 deaths every year since 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Although influenza viruses circulate year-round, flu activity peaks between December and February most years, but activity can last as late as May in the U.S.

On top of that, going from the extreme, weeks long arctic cold snap, back to above average temperatures, and then more cold, likely doesn't help matters.

Plus, we're in for more snow. Here's part of next week's weather forecast for the Danbury area from the National Weather Service

Monday Night: A 30 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18.
Tuesday: A 50 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 31.
Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18.
Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 26.
Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 11.

I think I'll just go back to bed. Wake me when Summer arrives.

Read More Local Stories:

Bonus: Five Guys on Federal Rd. Mysteriously Closes:

Bonus: The Hatters' Monument in Danbury, CT Is Unveiled

More From WRKI and WINE