EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) -- The flu is spreading fast across Western Massachusetts.

Western Mass News is getting answers on how it’s impacting our community and getting a closer look at what local doctors are seeing this season.

The flu remains a serious concern throughout our region right now, with doctors telling us February is typically the peak month for flu cases.

Early Tuesday evening, we spoke with Doctor John Kelley, a pediatrician with Redwood Pediatrics in East Longmeadow. He tells us this has been a very busy flu season, with cases surging around the holidays.

Doctor Kelley also says cases have died down a little bit since then, but another uptick is still likely.

During our conversation, we asked if the frigid weather we’ve been seeing has anything to do with increased cases. He says that while the cold weather doesn’t directly impact influenza cases, it does create a perfect environment for the virus to thrive in.

“Cold air, low humidity, the virus is more easily transmitted and is more viable. The virus itself is more stable in cold weather and can survive longer and be more infectious for a longer period of time,” Kelley explains.

Doctor Kelley is also reminding folks that the key to prevention against the virus is getting vaccinated, and that it’s not too late to get your flu shot if you haven’t yet.

Tonight at 10 and 11, Western Mass News will have more from local doctors about the cases they’ve been seeing across our area.

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