I wrote this from my couch, sniffing and wrapped in a blanket. Yes, irony noted. The flu took exactly 2.5 days to kick in after my kid sneezed in my mouth (parenting is glamorous). So if you’re reading this and feel a tickle, don’t assume it’s “nothing.” Assume your future self will blame your past self.
Here’s the truth: the flu’s incubation is a silent, fast-moving betrayal. You can’t feel it coming, but once it arrives, you’ll know. And you’ll wish you’d stockpiled ramen and binge-watched something good. Now, if you’ll excuse me, my nose is running a marathon. Pass the tissues—and my deepest sympathies.