Flu season is coming early in parts of the United States: This time last year, flu cases were lower in New Jersey than they are now, according to data on Google's Flu Trends. Town-specific data is not available on Flu Trends.

Overall in New Jersey, activity is considered high now, while it was considered low at this time in 2011, according to Flu Trends.

If you're considering getting a flu shot, here are some places in Matawan and Aberdeen that offer the vaccine:

CVS Pharmacy

• 557 South Atlantic Avenue
  Aberdeen, NJ 07747
  (732)765-4601
• 27 Morristown Road
  Matawan, NJ 07747
  (732)583-4347

Walgreens Pharmacy

• 947 State Route 34
  Matawan, NJ 07747
  (732) 583-7964
• 2625 Highway 516
  Old Bridge, NJ 08857
  (732) 838-0921

Stop & Shop Pharmacy

• 1129 Route 34
  Aberdeen, NJ 07747
  7325839500
• 100 State Route 36
  Keyport, NJ 07735
  7323354281

A&P 

• 325 Hwy. 35
  Cliffwood, NJ 07721
  (732) 441-9100

Park Plaza Pharmacy 

• 343 Highway 34 
  Matawan, NJ 07747
  732-290-9111

According to this week's CDC Flu activity report, influenza levels are on the increase across the country. 

Five states – Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee – are reporting flu rates not normally seen until January, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The flu season normally peaks in January and February.

Holiday travel and more time spent indoors due to soggy weather will contribute to the spread of the flu virus, so now is the time to get vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following information:

• Who should get vaccinated
• When to get vaccinated
• Selecting a flu vaccine
• Symptoms, complications and severity
• Treatment if you get the flu
• How flu spreads