Parts of the country are seeing flu cases earlier than expected. West Virginia is not yet in that category, but the holidays, family gatherings and travel have some experts predicting a tougher-than-normal flu season. A new strain of the flu virus is spreading quickly. Public health officials say so far, its West Virginia impact is minimal, but that is expected to change. Doctors recommend getting a flu shot, to help reduce the severity of symptoms, even if it doesn’t prevent you from getting it. The Kanawha Charleston Health Department and your medical provider should have the vaccine..