BOSTON ~ Boston, MA - The City of Boston and Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) have issued a warning to residents as flu cases surge earlier this year compared to last year. According to recent data, there has been a 114% increase in reported flu cases and a 44% increase in flu-related emergency department visits. The most significant rise in infections is among children, with those under the age of five experiencing an 83% increase and those between the ages of 5-17 seeing a staggering 217% increase.

This spike in flu cases is occurring a month earlier than last season, when Boston did not reach these numbers until January. The Flu Dashboard and Wastewater Dashboard provide further information on the rates in Boston.

In light of this concerning trend, BPHC is urging residents, especially children and older individuals who are at high risk, to get their annual flu vaccine. Vaccines have proven to be highly effective in lowering the risk of severe illness and hospitalization from the flu. BPHC recommends that everyone aged six months or older receive an annual flu vaccine.

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To make it easier for residents to access the vaccine, BPHC has organized 27 free vaccine clinics across 15 neighborhoods, vaccinating over 2,500 individuals. However, despite these efforts, as of December 6th, only 30% of Boston residents had received their flu shot.

"Flu cases are on the rise in Boston, and we are urging residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory illnesses that can cause hospitalization and severe illness," said Bisola Ojikutu, MD, MPH, FIDSA Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. "Flu spreads easily during this time of year when we gather together indoors. It is not too late to get vaccinated. Vaccination is the best tool we have to prevent serious illness."

BPHC will be hosting additional vaccination clinics throughout the city in January to ensure that more residents have access to the flu vaccine. Appointments can also be made at local pharmacies, community health centers, primary care physicians, or clinics sponsored by Boston's hospitals. Information on available vaccines in your area can be found at www.vaccinefinder.org.

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In addition to getting vaccinated, BPHC is reminding residents to practice core prevention strategies to protect themselves and others from the flu and other respiratory illnesses. These include practicing good hand hygiene, increasing ventilation, and staying home when sick. Wearing a mask can also provide added protection against the flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses when in crowded spaces.

Individuals at high risk of complications from respiratory infections are advised to seek medical care if they develop flu-like symptoms or are exposed to the flu. Early testing and antiviral treatment for both flu and COVID-19 can prevent severe illness and hospitalization. This includes people under two or over 65 years of age, pregnant individuals, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic illnesses.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated on free vaccination clinics by visiting boston.gov/vaccine-clinics or calling the Mayor's Health Line at 617-534-5050. By taking these precautions and getting vaccinated, we can all do our part in keeping ourselves and our community safe this winter season.

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