Flu Cases on the Rise in the Granite State

Health officials say the flu is now widespread in New Hampshire, according to WMUR.

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.

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

The CDC 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 the flu spreads