The state Department of Health reported Friday that 27 influenza cases have been confirmed throughout Mississippi.

The first confirmed case of the flu during the 2007-2008 season was reported in early November in the Forrest County area.

State Health Officer Doctor Ed Thompson said the state is now in peak flu season. The flu season usually peaks in January through March.

Thompson said it is not too late to get vaccinated.

Health officials are monitoring the flu through the Influenza-Like Illness System, made up of 53 health care providers in the state.

Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, and often extreme fatigue. Sore throat, headache, muscle aches and a runny nose are also often present.