The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the number of influenza cases are increasing and that flu shots still are available.

Reports of flu-like illnesses from across the state have led KDHE to report flu activity to be widespread, a news release said. In additional to the H1N1 virus, strains of influenza A and B also are circulating.

KDHE secretary Robert Moser said February is when “we typically see the peak” in flu cases.

“It is not too late to get a flu shot,” Moser said in the news release. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, and those around you, from getting influenza and potentially becoming sick for a week or longer.”

KDHE urges everyone ages 6 months and older to get a seasonal vaccine.

Getting a flu shot should be a priority for those at a high risk of developing serious influenza complications, the news release said. Those at high risk include young children; pregnant women; people with such chronic health conditions as asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease; and people ages 65 years and older.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness, and its symptoms include sudden onset of fever, sore throat, muscle aches and nonproductive cough.