Flu season hits the Kansas City Chiefs

Flu season has come to the Kansas City Chiefs. Andy Reid reported on Wednesday that Dwayne Bowe and Jaye Howard were sent home early because they had the flu. Obviously they don't want everyone else catching what those two have.

I have not gotten sick yet this holiday season. (Mrs. AP doesn't like it when I brag about my immune system, though.)

That's too bad on Howard, who has been playing well recently. He also has a shoulder injury so I'm not sure how that factors in. It's good that Allen Bailey, another defensive lineman, is returning to the field after a multi-week absence due to a concussion. Same with Phillip Gaines, who returns to the practice field this week.

Anthony Fasano was the only other player who did not practice on Wednesday, the first day of preparation for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He continues to deal with a knee injury but Reid said it was precautionary.

Meanwhile, Jamaal Charles did practice, which is a great sign as he comes off his knee and ankle injuries. He didn't practice on Wednesday last week so it's good he's practicing in limited fashion this week.

Did not practice

WR Dwayne Bowe (illness)

TE Anthony Fasano (knee)

DL Jaye Howard (illness / shoulder)

Limited practice

RB Jamaal Charles (knee / ankle)

LB Tamba Hali (knee)

LB Joe Mays (knee)

Full practice

DE Allen Bailey (concussion)

G Zach Fulton (toe)

CB Phillip Gaines (concussion)

LB Josh Mauga (oblique)

CB Chris Owens (knee)

CB Sean Smith (groin)