The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is reporting higher levels of flu and flu-related cases in Nebraska. The State is experiencing increased positive cases, school absenteeism, hospital visits, and hospitalizations. Thirteen Nebraskans have died from influenza-associated illness so far this season.
“The good news of declining COVID-19 cases is giving us some much-needed optimism,” said Dr. Matthew Donahue, State Epidemiologist for DHHS. “As influenza cases increase, it is important for Nebraskans to consider proven tools, like the flu vaccine and flu antivirals, to keep themselves and their families safe from sickness, hospitalizations, and death.
Donahue says the most common reaction people may experience from the shot is soreness and redness at the injection site. After vaccination, it takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity.
He says certain people are at high risk for serious complications, and it’s important they receive the vaccine:
- Young children
- Adults 65 years of age or older
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic lung disease (like asthma and COPD), diabetes (type 1 and 2), heart disease, neurologic conditions, and certain other long-term health conditions
- Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities