LANSING, MICHIGAN (WTVB) - The Michigan Department of Community Health said today it has confirmed a dozen cases of influenza, the first identified by the state lab during the 2012-2013 flu season in Michigan. The illnesses occurred in both children and adults in lower Michigan. At least two people were known to have been hospitalized. While influenza A and B viruses have now been confirmed inMichigan, it is too early to tell what kind of flu will circulate or how severe the flu season may be.

Now that the first cases of the season have been confirmed, MDCH says it’s an excellent reminder to get the flu vaccine. The State’s flu activity at this point is listed as "sporadic," the lowest of four categories the federal government tracks. Activity typically peaks in late January through February, but can sometimes peak earlier or later, depending on the strain of flu and severity of the season. Officials say there is ample supply of flu vaccine available. You can call your physician, local health department, or utilize the Health Map Vaccine Finder at www.flushot.healthmap.org to find nearby influenza vaccination clinics. And for more information, visit www.michigan.gov/flu.