Flu season could be worse this year

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - This time in December is usually fairly early in the flu season, but the number of flu cases for this time of year is unusually high and rising quickly.

Flu season typically runs from October through late March, with the majority of cases coming in January and February.

The volume of laboratory confirmed flu cases in the United States is now is higher than normal, signaling a particularly bad flu season ahead.

When it comes to the flu, the wetter the better. Drier weather makes your body more susceptible to catching the flu.

Symptoms of the flu include fever, body aches and fatigue and it develops quickly.

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"Fever, vomiting, [I] just felt lousy all over…I don't want to get it again. something to stay away from," said George Knight from Granby.

A vaccine will help you avoid a bout with the flu.

"You've got to do what you've got to do to stay healthy and if it means getting a flu shot we've got to do it," said Brenda Knight from Granby.

Since the flu is already in full swing, the sooner you get your shot, the better.

"You need to get your flu vaccine now because it takes maybe seven, ten maybe fourteen days for it to be fully effective," said Carol Wojnarowski, Infection Control Nurse at Holyoke Medical Center.

Each year's flu strain is different, so doctors recommend you get a vaccine each year.

Along with vaccinations, frequent hand washing, and covering your cough and sneezes are good tips.