Jan. 4, 2015 - A new strain of the flu is hitting Florida — especially the island of Palm Beach.

Dr. Earl Campazzi, who practices concierge medicine and house calls throughout Palm Beach, has seen more cases of the flu this year than any other in his eight years of practice. He’s not the only one noticing the trend. The state’s Department of Health reports higher levels this year than in past years, according to a weekly report surveying flu trends.

With more than a dozen cases in Palm Beach in the past two weeks, Campazzi recognizes that this new strain isn’t responding well to flu shots.

“Nine times out of 10, the flu shot is really effective,” Campazzi said. “This year, it just does not seem to be working.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the flu strain going around this season mutated from the strain contained in last year’s vaccine. The CDC still recommends getting the vaccine, as it provides a small level of protection this season.

The Florida Department of Health reported five outbreaks of the flu in the week of Dec. 14 — one of which was in Palm Beach County. Four more outbreaks were claimed in the most recent weekly report for the week of Dec. 21. The department also notes mild activity throughout Palm Beach County, but no advisories have been issued yet.

Campazzi has seen the flu afflict mainly adults, often getting bad enough that patients contract pneumonia.

“Almost every other patient call I get has the flu,” Campazzi said. “You can tell almost immediately after you walk through the door.”

The cases he’s seen among children remain mild. The health department reports that statewide, “Influenza activity is highest in children and overall is widespread throughout Florida.” Three pediatric deaths to date are associated with the flu outbreaks since November.

The CDC recommends taking measures to stop the spread of germs and taking antivirals prescribed by a doctor to treat the flu.

Campazzi’s recommendations are similar: Wash your hands as often as possible and see a doctor as soon as you notice signs of the flu.

“Early signs are usually dry hacking, cough and body aches,” Campazzi said. “As soon as someone notices these signs, they should contact a doctor immediately.”

The antivirals prescribed by a doctor are more effective within the first 48 hours, Campazzi said. You’re more likely to clear up the flu the earlier you get to a doctor and pick up a prescription.