State health officials say flu activity in Connecticut has rapidly increased since the week of Dec 16.

A total of 527 people have tested positive for the flu as of Dec. 22, marking a significant increase from the week prior, when 347 people tested positive.

According to an Influenza report by the Connecticut Department of Health, Influenza A viruses are the predominate type circulating.

Officials urge residents to protect themselves from the flu by getting a vaccine.

"December is still a good time for you and your family to obtain your flu vaccine and take steps to prevent
influenza-related illness and hospitalization," reads a statement from the Influenza report.