Michigan advocates flu vaccine

Vulnerable people in particular should seek out a flue vaccine this year.

A leading group of medical experts has urged the public to consider getting vaccinated against flu, especially as an unprecedented number of people are already reporting that they have the illness and the peak of the season is yet to come.

The Michigan Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP) claims the unpredictability of influenza means the virus can enjoy a high level of activity well into the spring, with previous seasons starting as early as October and finishing as late as May.

"It's absolutely not too late to get vaccinated against the flu virus this year," said Dr. Karen Mitchell, a family physician and MAFP Board member. "As long as the flu virus is circulating, it's never too late."

She added that a good match between the vaccine and the virus itself this year means that those who take the precaution are likely to be well protected.