Earlier this week, Michael Fine, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), issued a Declaration of Widespread Flu Incidence Statewide.

“Flu is here in Rhode Island, and all signs indicate that this flu season is expected to be more severe than those in recent past,” said Fine. 

This declaration triggers Rhode Island’s new regulations requiring all healthcare workers who have not been immunized against influenza to wear a surgical mask during all times of direct patient contact.

Overall in the state, activity is considered high now, while it was considered low at this time in 2011, according to Google's Flu Trends.

If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places in EG that offer the vaccine:

• CVS Pharmacy, 527 Main St.
• CVS Pharmacy, 1285 South County Trail
• CVS Pharmacy, 2240 New London Turnpike
• Walgreens, 1000 Division St. 

Check here for more locations in the surrounding area.

According to this week's CDC Flu activity report, influenza levels are on the increase across the country. 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