STATEWIDE (WGME) -- Just to our south, the city of Boston has declared a public health emergency because the flu outbreaks are so severe. And here at home, the Maine CDC says flu outbreaks could last for weeks to come. Their message is to be prepared.

Chris Guido, Gorham Community Pharmacy: “The flu is hitting Maine hard this season and doctors say we should all be taking it seriously. They say it is not too late to get your flu shot at your doctor's office, a clinic, or your local pharmacy.“

The Community Pharmacy is Gorham says there is still a huge demand for flu shots.

Guido: “We've been getting calls...do you have it? We're definitely seeing demand like we've never seen it before.”

The high demand has led to a temporary vaccine shortage at pharmacies across the state. Many have run out. Others, like the community pharmacies, are down to just handful of vaccines left.

Guido: “We've got about 3 or 4 left at this moment in time, but we expect to see that change in the next day or two.”

The Maine CDC says this is not a crisis. The state does have enough flu shots to fill the void, but it may take a couple of days to re-stock the shelves. And if you do end up sick, your doctor will likely give you a test like this one to determine if it's the flu or something else. These tests are made in Scarborough by a company called Alere.

Dr. Norman Moore, Director of Scientific Affairs at Alere: “If the doctor knows exactly what is causing your disease, they can treat it much better.”

Employees at Alere Research and Develop the Testing Technology make the kits that test for flu and other diseases, and then ship them to doctors and hospitals all across the world.

Moore: “We do everything here.”

Dr. Moore is one of the scientists who developed these tests. They don't hurt, they're easy for doctors to use, and results are back within minutes. That way you can get the treatment you need and you can get it fast.

Moore: “The day you start feeling sick is the day you are most infections so those are the days you want to avoid women, children, elderly, those are the biggest risk groups.”

Experts say the flu vaccine is working well this year, but if you do get sick, they are thankful for test kits like this one that can help you get the best treatment possible. 

There are many ways in which people contract the flu virus - but three of them stand out. Experts say being near somebody who is sick, drinking from the same cup, or sharing utensils, and touching a germy surface then putting your hands on your face, especially in the mouth and eye region are some of the top ways people contract the flu.

So what can you do to avoid the virus other than getting a flu shot? Experts say one of the easiest ways to keep from getting the flu is to wash your hands with soap and warm water. If you don't have access to them, hand sanitizer is an effective substitute.High demand for flu vaccines in Maine