BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- The Department of Public Health has seen a spike in flu cases in the past couple of weeks.
Massachusetts state epidemiologist Dr. Al DeMaria said a spike is normally seen in the middle of winter rather than in late fall.
"Usually it comes in January into February, but this year we're seeing an increase in flu activity which is quite early," DeMaria said. "It's the earliest I remember since 2003-2004."
Dr. DeMaria said the most important thing for the public to do is to get a flu shot--even if this year's batch is said to be only 10 percent effective against the dominant strain.
"It's still the best way that people can protect themselves," Dr. DeMaria said.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports