ILLINOIS. (Heartland News) – Flu season is here, and health officials say now is the time to get your flu shot if you have not already.
The Illinois Department of Health is starting to see increases in the number of flu cases in the state, with trends slightly higher than last year around this time.
Shawnna Rhine, director of public relations at Rural Health, says people with underlying health conditions, people who are immunocompromised, young people and elderly people are part of the vulnerable population for the flu.
“Our concern about making sure that those individuals who are immunocompromised or who are unvaccinated for whatever reason are also staying protected,” Rhine said. “Keep in mind, people do still die from the flu, and it is important to make sure that we’re doing everything we can to not only protect ourselves, but those around us.”
If you are experiencing flu symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, headaches, body aches or fever, it is important to contact your doctor.
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