Flu season has officially arrived early and strong in Tennessee, with cases of seasonal influenza now categorized as widespread in the state.

Several school systems in East Tennessee have had to close due to sickness this past week, including Etowah City Schools in nearby McMinn County and Union County.

School officials in Monroe County have reported increased sickness this week at local schools and are hoping the absentee rates remain low enough to keep schools open.

See full story in the Sunday, Dec. 9, edition of The Advocate & Democrat.