According to a press release from the New York State Department of Health, flu season peaks in January. But there have already been more than 4,500 cases of New Yorkers being hospitalized for the flu.

As Americans scramble for relief, public attention has turned to an over-the-counter supplement called N-acetylcysteine, or NAC. Supporters claim it can ease flu symptoms and even shorten how long you’re sick. But does it really work? To answer that, it helps to understand what NAC actually is.

Flu is rising rapidly across the U.S., driven by a new variant of the virus — and cases are expected to keep growing with holiday travel.

New York is seeing its worst flu season on record, with more than 71,000 cases reported in one week and hospitalizations surging statewide, including Monroe County. READ MORE:

For now, the CDC advises that wearing a mask is an effective prevention strategy, particularly in crowded settings such as public transportation. The H3N2 is a new strain of influenza A. The symptoms are described as more intense and contagious than typical seasonal flu. Recovery in most cases takes up to 15 days.

It's unclear how long the mask policy will remain in effect for the Glens Falls Hospital. New York State Health Commissioner James McDonald issued a statewide declaration last month, requiring all health care professionals who do not have a flu vaccine to wear a mask around patients.

Flu season is off to a rough start this year, according to new CDC data. The virus is spreading faster than in previous years and the surge is likely to get worse. Here's what you need to know.

Flu cases are surging in some states, including New Mexico, Colorado and Texas. Here's what to know about flu in Arizona.