St Paul, MN (KROC AM News) - For the first time during Minnesota's current influenza season, activity has been classified as widespread - the highest ranking.  

The Minnesota Health Department’s latest weekly report shows a spike in the number of patients being seen for flu-like symptoms at clinics and hospitals.

The department also says the number of positive influenza tests has increased from 5.6 percent to 13.1 percent.

The report shows the number of hospitalizations involving suspected flu cases rose from 44 to 72.  At the same time, there were just seven outbreaks reported at schools. That’s five fewer than the previous week.  

Despite the higher numbers, the department considers this to be a mild season compared to past years.

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