The Season Is Here: Where to Get Flu Shots

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

Overall in Wisconsin, activity is considered high now, while it was considered low at this time in 2011, according to Flu Trends.

If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places in the area that offer the vaccine:

Walgreens: 4081 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood 

• Flu vaccinations are available at Walgreens daily. Walk in anytime or schedule an appointment by clicking here. Most insurance accepted.

North Shore Health Department: Call 371-2980 for details and to make an appointment.

CVS Pharmacy: 240 E. Hampton Ave., Whitefish Bay

CVS offers flu shots everyday. They also accept insurance and Medicare Part B. They have vaccines for both adults (including the new, smaller-needle intradermal vaccine for ages 18-64) and children 18 months old and younger. Walk-ins are welcome, but shoppers can also schedule appointments by clicking here.

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