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Last updated on Friday, November 2, 2018
(INDIANAPOLIS) - The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) is reporting the state’s first influenza-related death of the 2018-2019 flu season.
"We don't typically see flu-related deaths this early in the season, but flu viruses circulate year-round and can have heartbreaking consequences at any time," said Indiana State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG. "With influenza activity beginning to increase, I encourage anyone who hasn't gotten a flu shot to get one to help protect themselves and their loved ones."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year. Dr. Box said that because infants under 6 months can't be vaccinated, it's important that anyone in a household where a young baby lives or visits get a flu shot to protect the child. Healthcare workers also are urged to get a flu vaccine to reduce their risk of transmitting illness to their patients.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body, so the CDC recommends early vaccination. However, the flu vaccine can be administered at any time during the season, which typically runs from October through May.
Influenza is a viral infection of the respiratory tract. It is spread by respiratory droplets released when infected people cough or sneeze nearby or when people touch surfaces or objects contaminated with those infectious respiratory droplets. People can also become infected by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with influenza viruses and then touching their eyes, mouth or nose.
Although anyone can get the flu, some people are at higher risk of flu-related complications, such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and death. High-risk individuals include pregnant women, young children (especially those too young to get vaccinated), people with chronic illnesses, people who are immunocompromised and the elderly. It is especially important for these individuals to be vaccinated each year.
Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:
People can help prevent the spread of flu by washing their hands frequently and thoroughly, avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with their hands and staying home when sick. Hoosiers should practice the "Three Cs" to help prevent the spread of flu and other infectious diseases:
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