PHOENIX — On Friday, the Arizona Department of Health Services announced that influenza cases in Arizona have tripled compared to the 2018 flu season. At this time, more than half of reported cases involve infants, children, and adolescents.
There have been 950 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases have been reported this season compared to 290 cases for the same time period in 2018. All counties in Arizona have reported influenza cases.
| For questions regarding the 2019–2020 influenza vaccine, call your local county health department or the Arizona Immunization Program Office at (602) 364-3630. Influenza vaccine recommendations are available on the CDC’s website. For more information, visit azdhs.gov/flu. |
“The best thing you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get your flu vaccine now if you haven’t already,” said Dr. Cara Christ, director of the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) in a press release. “Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to hospitalization or even death. With the holidays right around the corner and people attending gatherings with friends and family, getting a flu shot today can help stop the spread of the disease.”
According to ADHS, there are many different options to obtain your flu shot. You can use FluFinder to find a vaccine provider near you.
ADHS tips to avoid the flu:
Wash your hands
Cover your cough
Stay home when sick