City officials with the El Paso Department of Public Health said more than 3,000 influenza cases were reported in 2012, with more than half occurring in December.

Officials said 3,094 cases were reported in 2012 and 1,704 cases were reported in December. The total cases for 2012 were three times as many in 2011, which were 873 cases.

The increase from this year's flu season compared to last year is a much more dramatic. In the 2011-2012 flu season, 31 cases were reported. However in the 2012-2013 flu season, 1,989 cases have been reported, with the month of January still pending, officials said.

No flu-related deaths have been reported in El Paso, officials said.

The department would like to remind citizens that flu vaccinations are still available at the Immunization Health Centers throughout the city.

The cost of the vaccine is $10 for children 6 months to 18 years of age who qualify and $35 for the general public. To set up an appointment, call 915-771-5822.

To flu prevention tips, visit http://bit.ly/XBJYtC.

Citizens may also call 211 for information on flu vaccine providers.