Alabama could be in for an especially rough flu season, as doctors are already seeing patients with confirmed cases of influenza. WBRC Fox 6 News reports several Montgomery doctors have seen patients with flu-like symptoms and with confirmed cases of the flu. The Alabama Department of Public Health has recorded "significant" flu activity in its Northern and Eastern Central areas.

Although it's not 100% effective, getting a flu shot can significantly lessen the severity of symptoms if you do get influenza. Doctors recommend getting a flu shot earlier than usual this year in an effort to be prepared.

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