There has been a 77% rise in flu cases during the second week of December from the first, according to the state Health Department.

Doctors say the unusual weather may be to blame.

"The winter [weather] hit a little early, and it's been a little colder than normal, so I think it caught a lot of people off guard," says Dr. Mark Auerbach, of Northwell Health.

Auerbach says people need to get their immunizations, wash their hands and cover their mouths when they cough. He says if you're not feeling well, to stay home.

Despite the spike in flu cases, state data reveals New York is matching the amount of cases at this time in 2018.