State health officials are encouraging Minnesotans to get a flu shot this fall. The first laboratory confirmed cases are usually reported in late November. Infectious Diseas Division Director Kris Ehresmann says this year's vaccine is expected to be a good match. "At this point we haven't seen influenza activity in Minnesota, so we can't speak specifically to that," said Ehresmann. "But the vaccine is developed with the intent to be effective against the most common and those most likely to circulate." Ehresmann says they are trying not to forecast the severity of this year's influenza. "Depending on what strain is the predominant strain that can help to color how the flu season plays out," said Ehresmann. "We are encouraging people not to wait and go ahead and get the flu shot." Ehresmann says your body should develop protection against influenza within seven to 10-days of being vaccinated. She says its never too early to get a flu shot.