Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States. There were fewer cases of flew this time last year than there are this year, according to data on Google's Flu Trends.

Overall in Massachusetts, current activity is considered high, while it was considered moderate at this time in 2011, according to Flu Trends.

Flu shots are offered at Attleboro City Hall this month by appointment. If you need a vaccine, call nurse Jacquie O'Brien at 508-223-2222 ext. 3244. Seekonk residents needing shots should call Seekonk Town Hall at 508-336-2950.

Here are some other places in Attleboro and Seekonk offering flu shots:

• Walgreens, 196 Pleasant St. in Attleboro
• CVS, 486 Pleasant St. in Attleboro
• Stop & Shop, 125 Highland Ave. in Seekonk
• Target, 79 Commerce Way in Seekonk

Additional locations in and around Attleboro and Seekonk can be found by going here and plugging the community's name or ZIP code in the search bar.

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

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