Sporadic cases of flu are being reported in Washtenaw County. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting the flu vaccine before the end of October.
“As we saw last year, flu can be very dangerous,” says Christina Zilke, RN, PHN, immunization coordinator at the Washtenaw County Health Department. “Getting your flu shot is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and our entire community.”
Health officials say aside from vaccination, it is also important to stay home if you are sick, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, wash your hands often using soap and warm water and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
Last year, officials say Washtenaw saw a record number of flu-related hospitalizations. Over 450 residents experienced flu-related hospitalizations in the 2017-2018 season.
The Washtenaw County Health Department offers vaccines to children and adults regardless of insurance status or income. The cost for the flu shot is $30 for children and $40 for adults.
More information is available here.
