SPOKANE, Wash. - The Spokane Regional Health District says flu season has begun. Since the start of last week six people have been hospitalized because of the virus.
"We're seeing an increased number of hospitalizations," said Kim Papich, Spokane Regional Health District. "But we're actually a little below average."
That is good news, but the Spokane Regional Health District doesn't want to the public to get too comfortable with the lower numbers.
"We still want people to be getting their flu shots, and practice their respiratory etiquette," said Papich.
The health district says January and February are the peak months of the year for the flu. If you got a flu shot last year you will need to come in for another one this year, and they encourage everyone to schedule some time to get vaccinated
"It doesn't matter how old you are, the best prevention against the flu is to get a flu shot," said Papich.
New this year, the health district is offering an intradermal flu shot, which uses a much smaller needle
"It barely protrudes into the surface of the skin so for people with a fear of needles they no longer can have an excuse," said Papich.
The health district hopes people will shy away from any myths they might have about getting a shot, and say the flu shot will help them continue getting through life healthy.
"Given time away from work, potential secondary illnesses, hospitalization there's no risks if you get the flu shot, but there are risks if you get the flu," said Papich
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