Dr. Mallika Marshall tells us that she continues to see an increase in flu cases in urgent care this week, witnessing the highest percentage of cases in years.

The CDC says flu rates in the United States have reached the highest level in 15 years. It seems like all respiratory infections are ramping up right now as we’re now in the thick of winter. But doctors say that getting vaccinated will keep you protected from getting seriously sick.

The flu is walloping every corner of Massachusetts in an unusual second surge of the season, with people reporting flu-like symptoms at rates higher than any other winter peak since before COVID struck five years ago, according to state data.

Cases of influenza have increased across the Bay State since late December 2024, with a second surge detected in late January going into Feb. 1, according to DPH officials.

Is it common for the flu to zap us twice in the winter months? Massachusetts, and the U.S. for that matter, had a surge in cases in early January, followed by a second spike in late January into the early days of February.