ODH urging flu vaccinations to prevent spread

COLUMBUS

Although Ohio is experiencing minimal influenza-like illness activity compared to what is being seen in other parts of the country, there are signs that influenza activity is on the rise in Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

As a consequence, ODH is encouraging residents to get their influenza vaccine. So far this flu season, 338 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported to ODH, primarily in Northeast Ohio.

“The flu virus will be less likely to spread if more people are vaccinated,” said ODH director, Dr. Ted Wymyslo. “Immunization has proven to be the safest and most effective way to fight the flu so I encourage all Ohioans to get vaccinated.”

For information on influenza, including where to find vaccines, visit the “Flu Season in Ohio” feature at www.odh.ohio.gov.