LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — With peak flu season coming around, state health officials and physicians are saying its never to late to get a flu shot.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is recognizing the week of December 1, 2019 as National Influenza Vaccination Week.
The agency reports that on 46.1 percent of Michigan residents received a flu shot last season. Michigan ranks 38th in the nation for flu vaccination coverage and is placed below the national average of 49.2 percent.
Officials are preparing for steadily increasing reports of influenza in Michigan, with markedly higher rates alreasy in central and southwest Michigan.
Last season Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 42.9 million people nationally became sick with the flu, resulting in 61,200 deaths.
Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive for MDHHS says,“It is important to get vaccinated today to prevent yourself from getting sick this holiday season.
It takes about two weeks after the vaccine is given before the body builds up enough immunity to prevent the flu. MDHHS recommends annual influenza vaccination for all persons ages 6 months and older. There are many flu vaccine options available this season, and residents should speak with a healthcare provider about which is best for them.
