CDC Says Flu Season Is Here: Where to Get Vaccinated in Evanston

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

Overall in Chicago, activity is considered high now, while it was considered moderate 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 (besides your own doctor, of course):

• Walgreens, 210 Green Bay Rd.
• Dominick's, 2748 Green Bay Rd.
• CVS Pharmacy, 1711 Sherman Ave.
• Dominick's, 1910 Dempster St.
• Walgreens, 900 Dodge Ave. 
• CVS Pharmacy, 3333 Central St.
• Jewel-Osco Pharmacy, 1128 Chicago Ave.
• Walgreens, 635 Chicago Ave.
• CVS Pharmacy, 101 Asbury St.
• Target Pharmacy, 2209 W. Howard St.

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