United States Update: The number of flu cases is expected to be higher than last year amid lingering

A warning from health experts urging Americans to not only get their flu shot but also their COVID-19 booster.

Dr. Anthony Fauci is not alone in issuing this warning. White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Xi Jaw says it's possible a new variant could emerge that evades our vaccines, including the new bivalent booster. As for the flu, the country experienced low levels of cases in the past two years. This was mostly due to behavioral changes during the pandemic, including avoiding large gatherings and masking up. But health officials in New York say they are seeing nearly four times that amount compared to this time last year. That number is fueling concerns among experts as we head into the colder months.

While there's really no way to know what flu activity will look like from season to season, we do know that every year the first and most important step to protect yourself is a flu vaccination.

The CDC urged everyone over six months to get a flu shot. They say the best time is between now and the end of October. For those over 65, they're recommending a high-dose flu vaccine, which may be more effective for this age group. And you can get your flu shot and your updated COVID-19 booster at the same time.