Flu cases spike in Boston; far higher rate now than last year

The Boston Public Health Commission reports 700 new flu cases in Boston over the past week - along with "a rapid increase in influenza-related pediatric hospitalizations."

The current levels of influenza activity are concerning, and this high level is occurring much earlier in the season than usual. Last year, the highest number of influenza cases reported in a given week was 250 at the peak of the flu season in mid-December. The data also indicate the highest number of reported cases is among children and adolescents younger than 18 years old, representing 59% of cases, as well as among Black and Latinx/Hispanic residents. The neighborhoods with the highest case rates are Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, and South End. 

The commission urged residents to get themselves and their children vaccinated, at a doctor's office, pharmacy or one of the city's four free walk-in clinics - where the latest Covid-19 vaccines are also available:

• Bolling Building, Nubian Square, Tues.-Sat., 12-8 p.m.
• Lena Park, 150 American Legion Highway, Dorchester, Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Mon. and Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Weds., 12-7 p.m
• Fiorentino Community Center, 123 Antwerp St., Allson, Sun., 12-4 p.m., Mon.- Weds., 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. and Thurs., 5-9 p.m.
• BCYF, 1179 River St., Hyde Park, Tues., 12-8 p.m. and Thurs., 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.