CDC Says the Season Is Here: Where to Get Flu Shots on Mercer Island

Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States: This time last year, flu cases were lower on Mercer Island than they are now, according to data on Google's Flu Trends. (Mercer Island-specific data is not available on Flu Trends.)

Overall in Washington, activity is considered "moderate" now, while it was considered "low" at this time in 2011, according to Flu Trends. Google Flu Trends uses aggregated Google search data to estimate flu activity.

If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places on Mercer Island that offer the vaccine (besides your own doctor, of course):

• Sav-on Pharmacy/Albertson’s
• Rite Aid (North-end)
• Rite-Aid (South-end)
• Walgreens

According to this week's CDC Flu activity report, influenza levels are on the increase across the country. 

Five states – Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee – are reporting flu rates not normally seen until January, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The flu season normally peaks in January and February.

Holiday travel and more time spent indoors due to soggy weather will contribute to the spread of the flu virus, so now is the time to get vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following information:

• Who should get vaccinated
• When to get vaccinated
• Selecting a flu vaccine
• Symptoms, complications and severity
• Treatment if you get the flu
• How flu spreads