Flu season is here and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging residents to get vaccinated. The 2018-2019 flu season saw an estimated 647,000 hospitalizations and nearly 61,000 deaths from influenza nationwide. Currently, there are only sporadic reports of the flu in the state of Michigan, but officials warn that could change quickly. Once a person receives a flu shot, it takes up to two weeks for the body to build up enough immunity to prevent the flu. The flu shot is made with inactivated or killed viruses and cannot give you influenza.
Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health said, “Residents should receive their flu vaccine today to have optimal protection throughout the flu season.” The MDHHS says that everyone six months of age and older should receive a flu vaccine every year. They also say that getting a flu vaccine protects not only you but those around you who may have serious complications if they get the flu. Officials say currently there are ample supplies of supplies of flu vaccine at several locations in Michigan. The vaccines can be found at doctors offices, pharmacies, and local health departments.
Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.
