The flu is on the rise in Hamilton, prompting the city’s public health services to renew calls for people to get vaccinated.

The city says it is seeing increased flu activity, with 24 lab confirmed cases reported as of Dec. 20. That’s broken down into 16 cases of Influenza A and 8 cases of Influenza B.

“While overall flu activity in Hamilton is still low, it is increasing which means it is still a good time to get the flu shot,” says Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, the city’s Medical Officer of Health.

“Getting the flu shot also protects people around you, such as young children and seniors, who are at greater risk of getting seriously ill from flu.”

The flu is a serious illness that starts suddenly and often lasts longer than a cold. Symptoms include fever, headache, body ache, chills and weakness.

The city says the flu shot, frequent hand-washing and covering coughs and sneezes are the best way to prevent illness.