[2]Confirmed flu cases (l) and rates of ER visits for flu-like symptoms.
The Boston Public Health Commission says now would be a good time to get a flu shot - because the flu is beginning its annual winter surge in Boston. Figures released today [2] for the week ending Dec. 15 show the rate of emergency-room visits for flu-like symptoms is now at its highest level since March, 2011.
The commission says a shot is a good idea for everybody [3], but particularly important for people who are over 65 - or under 5 - have lung, heart or kidney ailments, are morbidly obese or are pregnant. Most primary-care physicians can provide a flu shot, or contact the Mayor's Health Line at 617-534-5050 or 800-847-0710.