Though the recent balmy weather seems more fitting for reminders to be on the lookout for mosquitos spreading West Nile Virus, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is urging all Kansans to receive an annual flu vaccination to protect themselves and their loved ones. It’s not too late. In fact, Dec. 4-10 is National Influenza Vaccination Week.
KDHE reports that on average, 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population contracts the flu yearly, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized with flu complications. During the 2015-16 influenza season, influenza contributed directly to 12 deaths among Kansas residents. This was a sharp decline from the previous season with 95 deaths. Of the Kansas deaths, 42 percent were among those between the ages of 45-64. Four influenza outbreaks in longterm care facilities were investigated during 2015-16 season.
Guard your health. Get vaccinated. —DR
