Maine public health officials say the number of positive influenza tests in the state has surged to the highest level since the 2009-1010 flu season.
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention announced Wednesday that the state has reported 682 positive flu tests so far, with 230 during the week ending Jan. 3 and 157 cases during the last full week of 2014.
There have been no confirmed flu deaths in Maine this season.
During the 2009-10 flu season, the Maine CDC reported 1,060 cases.
Agency director Dr. Sheila Pinette tells the Portland Press Herald the holiday season and winter weather may have contributed to the sudden spike. The holidays bring people together, and the cold keeps people inside more.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
