Seven people in Indiana have reportedly died from the influenza virus this season according to the Indiana State Department of Health. They say they are seeing high levels of flu activity right now.
Five of the flu-related deaths were people 65 years or older. The other two were between 50 and 64 as well as 25 and 49. It was also noted that one long-term care facility has had an influenza outbreak.
Health officials always recommend getting a flu shot especially for people who are at high-risk of complications related to the flu:
- People 65 and older
- People with chronic diseases like asthma, diabetes or heart disease
- Pregnant women
- Children under the age of 5
At this point, it’s not too late to get the flu shot.
It is critical to take care of yourself right now. Basic preventative measures are also important, in addition to the vaccine: washing hands, limited contact with others who are sick, covering nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces areas all help to stop the spread of the influenza virus.
