Department of Public Health: Flu Widespread in Commonwealth

Mayor Thomas Menino declared a health emergency due to Boston's flu outbreak.

But Boston isn't the only part of the Commonwealth being affected.

According to Ann Roach of the Department of Public Health, the issue is widespread.

"It's across the Commonwealth, every region is being hit," she said.

Roach did not have the number of cases reported in Acton.

“It’s hard to observe on the local level," Acton Board of Health Director Doug Halley said. “We’ve had good response in return of people who have been getting the vaccine.”

There were over 700 reported cases in the city this flu season, according to the Boston Public Health Commission. That's 10 times the average number of cases last year, according to WBUR. 

Fortunately, there's plenty of vaccine to go around this year, and the mayor's office recommends everyone get the shot. The city website has a calendar of free flu vaccine clinics. They also have a page devoted to flu information and prevention tips. You can also use the widget above to find flu shots at pharmacies, clinics and other locations near you.

The Red Cross offers several tips to reduce your exposure to the flu, like washing your hands often, coughing and sneezing into your elbow instead of your hand and others on this list. 

“It’s hard to observe on the local level, “ Acton Board of Health Director Doug Halley said. “We’ve had good response in return of people who have been getting the vaccine.”