DENVER -- The number of flu cases in Colorado has doubled.

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The latest figures indicate 226 confirmed cases of the flu as of Sunday, Nov. 9, 7NEWS reported. The health department said the flu is hitting about a month earlier than normal and it's hitting the state with a vengeance.

At Rose Medical Center Thursday night doctors and nurses were busy with dozens of patients complaining of flulike symptoms. The patient board where the staff keeps track of their cases was full of names of people who came in with the flu.

"I think we are just getting the first bits of the season and I think it is going to be a bad one based on how it has been so far," said Dr. Susan Ryan with the Rose Medical Center.

It seems that a lot of people are calling in sick from work or school as the virus spreads through town, doctors said.

"People are coming in with onset of fever, chills, feeling like a truck hit them, achy in their bones and muscles," said Ryan.

Flu shots help but state health officials said the immunizations aren't as effective against the Type A strain that seems to be prevalent this year. You can call the health department hotline to find out about a flu clinic near your at (888) 692-0269.

Colorado is one of three states with elevated local flu activity. Texas has the most serious problem with elevated regional activity. The flu season lasts through February.