Still Time to Get A Flu Shot

Health officials continue to urge Michigan residents to get a flu vaccination, as influenza activity continues to rise. The Michigan Department of Community Health says there has been an increase in hospitalizations from the flu in every age group and at least six deaths have been reported this flu season. MDCH spokesperson Angela Minicuci says many of the cases being reported are H1N1 cases, the virus strain that caused a pandemic in 2009. But, she says, this year’s flu shot includes a vaccine for H1N1, so it’s a good time to get the shot. Minicuci says other ways to help protect yourself and others from the flu is: to wash your hands with soap and warm water; if you have the flu, stay home; and if someone in your home is ill, wipe off door knobs and common surfaces to prevent the spread of the virus to your family members.