CONNECTICUT (WTNH) — It is peak cold season and here in Connecticut flu cases continue to climb, but it’s not the only viral infection spreading around.

“The scratchy throat and the ahem going on,” Zaida Molina, who recently had the flu, said.

Flu map: These states are now at CDC’s highest activity level

It’s the first warning sign for many colds, but what came next for Molina was a strong indicator it was more serious.

“The coughing and the achiness and you just feel very lethargic. You don’t really want to get up from the couch,” Molina said.

A positive influenza test at her doctor’s office last month confirmed it and the Meriden resident is far from alone.

The CDC currently categorizes flu activity in the state as very high.

Last week, the Connecticut Department of Public Health recorded over 3,700 cases, the highest amount this season. It’s resulted in nearly 1,400 hospitalizations and 31 deaths.

Molina knows firsthand just how quickly the flu can spread.

“Very, very contagious, I mean it started off with my husband, then a couple days later I had it, then a couple days later my daughter had it, then a couple days later my mother-in-law had it,” Molina said.

“We are a relatively small practice, but we are seeing a couple flu cases a day which is not what we were seeing in the fall. The last couple weeks it’s really picked up,” Dr. Frank Mongillo said.

Internal Medicine Doctor Frank Mongillo says Covid, RSV and Norovirus cases are also rising.

He said it’s not too late to get vaccinated, especially for people at higher risk for respiratory failure like those with asthma, lung disease or COPD.

“We think even if it doesn’t prevent the actual virus, it can prevent the complications. You want to avoid crowds. You want to avoid a lot of contact this time of year, especially if you have underlying health conditions,” Mongillo said.

“Plenty of fluids, rest, if you think you have it, stay home,” Molina said.

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