South Dakota's State Epidemiologist says it is not too late to be vaccinated to prevent the flu.
As of Thursday, January 10, South Dakota reported 469 laboratory-confirmed cases of flu and 135 flu-related hospitalizations. Nine deaths have also been reported, all over the age of 75.
South Dakota State Epidemiologist Dr. Lon Kightlinger noted this year's flu activity is occurring earlier and at higher levels than recent years, other than the 2009 pandemic. Kightlinger said people are encouraged to get vaccinated early in the season, but he said it isn't too late to get immunized.
"The flu virus is likely to be with us for several weeks, if not months, so getting vaccinated now can provide important protection from the flu," Kightlinger said.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone, but some are at higher risk for complications – pregnant women, people over 50 years and people with chronic medical conditions. Health-care workers and household contacts of high-risk populations such as those with young infants should also be vaccinated. Children are another high risk group, accounting for significant cases and hospitalizations each year and helping spread flu in the community. The department offers free flu vaccine for kids from six months to 18 years.
In addition to vaccination, to prevent the spread of the flu:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand gel ;
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze;
• Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth; and,
• Stay home if you're sick.
Learn more at http://flu.sd.gov
