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While the severity and timing of flu outbreaks vary year to year, peak flu activity in the U.S. usually occurs during December through February, the researchers added.

\"It is difficult to predict when influenza activity will peak for the current season; however, influenza activity will increase in the coming weeks,\" the report stated.

\"PHOTO:
STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
PHOTO: A sick girl lies in bed in this undated stock photo.
>

The CDC's report observing heightened flu activity so far this season comes shortly after a team of international medical experts warned that the upcoming flu season in the U.S. could be a bad one, citing preliminary data from Australia, where the flu season is waning.

The CDC states on its website that an annual flu vaccine is the \"the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.\"

In addition, the CDC recommends avoiding close contact with sick people, limiting your contact with others when you feel sick and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, in order to prevent the spread of germs.

Other actions the CDC recommends to stop the spread of the seasonal flu include washing your hands often with soap and water; avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and disinfecting surfaces that may have been contaminated with flu germs.

\"PHOTO:
Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images
PHOTO: Viles of flu vaccine, manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur, are displayed for a photograph at Perry Memorial Hospital in Princeton, Ill., Oct. 12, 2017.
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