Experts urge flu shots as season hits early

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The flu season has arrived, and health officials say it's starting earlier - and the strain is stronger - than in past years.

The big push is because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says this year's flu season is ramping up earlier this year, for the first time in about 10 years. And the strain causing the majority of infections this year is H3N2, associated with a severe flu season. 

• FIND YOUR VACCINE | You can search for a location providing flu vaccines here

The good news is that the vaccine - manufactured ahead of the season - is a good match with this year's common virus. So experts are urging vaccines, especially for those in high risk categories. Those who are especially at risk are those who are pregnant, those who have chronic illnesses, those 65 and older and children. The CDC advises vaccines for kids younger than 5, but especially those younger than 2 - and some children might need not one but two vaccines. 

There are some people who should not get flu vaccines or should only get certain types of the vaccines, however. The CDC has a complete list of who should get what vaccine here . 

More information is available on CDC’s website .