With positive cases of the flu already recorded in the area, now is the time to get your flu shot.

“The flu vaccine can help reduce the symptoms and severity of illness if you do get the flu and lower your risk of hospitalization,” said Dr. Shuisen “Jason” Li, associate chief medical officer, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Carbon.

Dr. Li said the network has already begun seeing people with the illness.

“We have seen positive cases, more cases this week compared to previous weeks,” he noted.

According to the most recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, flu activity remains low but has been on the rise since late August.

“Early-season influenza activity is currently higher than typically observed at this time of year but remains within expected seasonal variation,” the CDC reported.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is reporting cases in Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton counties.

Dr. Carly Sedlock, Medical Director for Healthcare Epidemiology/Infection Prevention and Antibiotic Stewardship at St. Luke’s said, “Influenza activity remains low in the US and our area, but we have started to see a small increase in positive cases over the last few weeks.

She added, “Per the CDC, early-season influenza activity is currently higher than typically observed at this time of year but remains within expected seasonal variation.”

Flu symptoms tend to arrive abruptly, Li said, and typically include fever, extreme fatigue, body aches, a runny or stuffy nose, cough and headache.

Some may develop vomiting and diarrhea, he added.

While the flu is beginning to spread, Li said it typically peaks between December and February.

“The end of December and early January are usually the highest,” he explained.

But that doesn’t mean that people should put off their vaccines.

“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to make antibodies and build protection, so getting vaccinated now helps protect people throughout the flu season,” Li said. “It is the right time to get vaccinated now.”

Sedlock said, “At this time, people should get their flu shot as soon as they are able, but ideally by the end of October.”

She added that influenza activity typically peaks between December and February, so it is important to get protected before that time. The influenza vaccine is safe, Sedlock stressed. An updated seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older.

“There are several formulations of influenza vaccine available, so it is best to discuss your individual health situation with your doctor,” Sedlock said.

While getting the flu shot is the best preventative measure, Li recommended that folks frequently wash their hands and avoid touching their facial area.

In addition, Li advised staying away from people who are sick with viral illnesses — or to use masks if they are around them. Beefing up one’s immune system by eating a healthy and balanced diet, getting sufficient sleep and exercising regularly is also recommended.

Sedlock added, “Influenza can cause hospitalization and serious complications.”

That’s especially true for people with underlying health conditions, the elderly, infants and young children, and pregnant people.”

“While some vaccinated people can still get the flu, vaccination will reduce the risk of more serious illness, hospitalization, and death”