Politics & Government

Flu Cases on the Rise in Massachusetts

Health officials say the virus is now widespread throughout the state.

By Marc Fortier and Chris Helms

Health officials report the flu is now widespread in the Bay State, according to a weekly update by theCenters for Disease Control.

Cases of the flu are rising, and that is expected to continue in the coming weeks. The H1N1 strain of the virus especially is being seen quite frequently.

It's still not too late to get a flu shot. The vaccine is available in the traditional shot form for people six months of age and older. Flu vaccine in a nasal mist form is available for healthy people aged 2 to 49 years who are not pregnant. Residents are encouraged to check with schools, pharmacies, their healthcare provider, or wherever is the most convenient location to be vaccinated.

Tip: You can type your Zip code into the attached widget to find where to get a shot locally.

Typically, flu season lasts until May, but it's difficult to predict when the peak will hit. Flu activity is moderate right now in Massachusetts, according to Google Flu Trends.

The CDC offers the following information:


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