Hurry up and get that flu shot soon, because influenza is already here in Maine.

The Bangor Daily News is reporting today that influenza is hitting Mainers already, several weeks earlier than the typical winter flu season that usually begins in late October.

The flu in Maine typically peaks in January and February but can continue into May. Doctors and health professionals are encouraging everyone to get their flu shots early this year, after multiple hospitals around the state have already reported cases of influenza.

Symptoms of the flu virus include fever, muscle aches, headache, cough, sore throat and runny nose. The illness spreads from person to person primarily by coughing and sneezing. Wash your hands, and stay home if you're sick!

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