Flu Making The Rounds In Metro Detroit Area
MACOMB COUNTY (WWJ) - Many residents in the Metro Detroit area continue to battle the flu. Wayne County officials say excluding Detroit, there have been 152 hospitalizations over the past four months due to the flu.
The young and the elderly are most at risk for complications from the flu.
Susan Cerniglia from Washtenaw County Public Health says in Washtenaw County they are continuing to experience high numbers of hospitalizations due to the flu.
"We had over 70 hospitalizations reported last week, so that's a very high weekly number even during the flu season, unfortunately we also had five flu related deaths among adults," said Cerniglia.
The outbreak of the flu virus in Metro Detroit is prompting people to get the flu vaccine. That was the case for Nancy Woug of Mt Clemens who got her flu shot at the Macomb County Health Department today.
"I've been listening to the news about it," said Woug. "They're talking about people my age, I'm 67, and it's better to reconsider your thoughts - getting that shot to be safe."
Macomb County has seen a 40 percent higher number of cases - and one death.
Bob Schakay of Harrison Township was with his wife at the Macomb County Health Department to get a flu shot.
"I think it's good to get the flu vaccination because, for example, kids under six months can get it (the flu vaccine) so they can't be protected so the best protection is to protect everyone who is exposed to them," he said.
Oakland County has had four deaths due to the virus.
Last week a teen from Armada died at Detroit Children's Hospital, her father says it was flu related.
Health Department officials say it's not too late to get the vaccine for effectiveness even though we are nearing the mid-way point with the flu but stress that the vaccine does not prevent the flu virus but will lessen the severity of the symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone six months of age and older get a flu shot.
To prevent the spread of germs cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often and stay home if you're sick.
