By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
The latest data from the Minnesota Department of Health show an increase in flu and respiratory sickness across the state. MDH Epidemiologist Melissa McMahon says there’s been a recent uptick in activity:
“We had a fairly slow start to the flu season which was great. The flu season definitely has arrived. It’s not an unexpected time of year for it to start to rise. We certainly see a lot of activity pick up kind of during and after the holidays.” – MDH Epidemiologist Melissa McMahon, Audio courtesy of the Minnesota News Network
She says the increased flu activity will continue for the next couple weeks. According to the latest data from the Minnesota Health Department, the number of flu cases has increased to just over 700 hospitalizations in the last two weeks, which is a higher number than any other point of flu hospitalizations in the previous 6 years. Outbreaks in long-term care facilities and schools have also increased in recent weeks.
McMahon says the flu vaccine is the best tool we have to prevent the spread, and she noted the importance of immunization for certain groups:
“For people who are at higher risk like folks who are over 65 and especially over 80 or people with pre-existing medical conditions. For them flu can be a really horrible disease and potentially land in the hospital or it can be fatal.” – MDH Epidemiologist Melissa McMahon, Audio courtesy of the Minnesota News Network
Here in Northfield there are several options to get your flu vaccine. Rice County Public Health offers flu vaccine at its weekly immunization clinics, held every Tuesday between 1 and 4 p.m. at the Rice County Government Services Building, 320 Third St. NW, Faribault. No appointment is needed. Both trivalent and high-dose flu vaccines are available. The vaccine is also available for anyone who is uninsured.
Several Pharmacies in Northfield also offer free Flu Shots with an Insurance Card, including Cub Foods, Target, and Walgreens. Click on the links to find out more information and schedule an appointment:
McMahon noted that while the vaccine can help prevent you from getting sick and help reduce the symptoms:
“That can happen, however if you’re vaccinated, that maximizes your chances of either not getting flu or or having a more mild version of the illness. So you’re not as sick for as long.” – MDH Epidemiologist Melissa McMahon, Audio courtesy of the Minnesota News Network
See the full report from MDH below:
