According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, reports from doctors' offices, school health services and community health centers indicate that influenza activity is low and consistent with levels we normally see around this time of year. After last year's horrible flu season, which was the worst since 2009, we're all hoping that this influenza season is mild in comparison. 

However, a recent report from the Massachusetts Public Health Blog states that we're still early in the flu season and that rates are expected to rise over the next few months. It's not too late to get your vaccine and lower your chances of going to the doctor with the flu by 40 to 60 percent. If you need to find a flu vaccine provider near you, use this link to search for one in your zip code. 

We're approaching the holiday season when more people are traveling and gathering in large groups than usual, so it's a good idea to get vaccinated before then. To learn more about this year's flu season and how it's affecting Massachusetts, visit blog.mass.gov/publichealth.