Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States: This time last year, flu cases were lower in the Washington D.C.-Metro area than they are now, according to data from Arlington and Washington on Google's Flu Trends. 

(Fairfax City-specific data is not available on Flu Trends.)

The rate of residents with the flu is the highest it's been in Arlington and the D.C. area since 2009-2010, when flu activity skyrocketed early in October, according to data. 

Overall in Virginia, activity is considered "high." The flu activity in the state now is the highest it's been in December for the past six years of data.

At this time last year, activity was considered moderate, according to Flu Trends.

If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places in Fairfax City that offer the vaccine (besides your own doctor, of course):

• CVS/Pharmacy 11003 Lee Highway
• Rite Aid 10521 Lee Highway
• Walgreens 10320 Main St
• Safeway Pharmacy 10350 Willard Way
• Joseph Willard Health Center 3750 Old Lee Highway

More locations

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

Five states – Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee – are reporting flu rates not normally seen until January, according to the Centers for Disease Control. 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