Two North Alabama school systems are closing as the number of flu cases across the state increases.
Al.com reports Albertville City Schools will be closed Friday and Monday, while Fayetteville City Schools will close Friday.
Albertville officials say 13 percent of the district's almost 5,700 students were absent Thursday. WHNT-TV reports teachers and custodians will use the student-free days to clean classrooms and other areas.
Fayetteville is reporting higher numbers of flu as well as a stomach virus.
Other school systems, while not shutting down, are urging parents to keep kids home if they're ill.
The closures come as much of north and eastern Alabama are reporting what the Department of Public Health classified as "significant" influenza activity.
Flu season generally peaks between December and February, though it can last as late as May.