LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer is urging Michiganders to get the flu vaccine in time for flu season.
Whitmer says preventing the flu will help the state save lives and preserve healthcare resources needed to continue fighting COVID-19.
"When we all get our flu vaccine, we can help keep thousands of flu patients out of hospitals and prevent overcrowding," she said.
Between 2019 and 2020, there were 952 flu-related hospitalizations in Michigan, officials said during a press conference Tuesday.
Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said 31 percent of Michiganders received their flu vaccine last season.
State officials said they were very concerned about the potential for a surge in COVID-19 cases at the same time as a flu surge.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is launching a statewide campaign, Facing the Flu Together, encouraging residents to get their flu vaccine this fall.
"Our hospitals are still reeling from the spring COVID-19 hospitalizations and are working to prepare for a potential second wave of the virus," Whitmer said in a press release. "I encourage everyone to get their flu vaccine, and tell your friends and family to do the same.”
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