MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – For some families, getting a flu shot has become a part of their pre-winter routine. flu cases have actually been way down the past couple of winters.

But Kris Ehresmann, the Director of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Prevention and Control Division at the Minnesota Department of Health, says that will likely change this season.

“Even if this year is just a normal straightforward flu season, it will seem a lot worse because we’ve been fortunate to have some very mild season,” Ehresmann said.

She says Minnesota’s flu season usually starts around Thanksgiving, or late November. This year was different.

“The fact that we had that first flu case in October was early for typical seasons,” she said.

The good news is Minnesota appears to be in a bit of a lull right now, while states to the east and south are seeing a jump in cases.

That’s why health leaders say now is the time to get vaccinated. Before this year’s flu strain hits home.

“I think the most important message right now is that, while we have this lull in influenza activity, it’s a really excellent time to be vaccinated,” Ehresmann said.

To find the nearest flu shot clinic, visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s website.