Twenty-five flu-related deaths have been reported in Indiana this season and officials with the Indiana State Department of Health are urging residents to reduce the spread of influenza.
Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box suggests getting a flu shot to prevent the flu or decrease its severity.
Elderly residents, especially those with health conditions can be susceptible to the flu as well as pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses and those with compromised immune systems.
Influenza is spread when infected people cough or sneeze and people touch surfaces or objects contaminated with droplets. Common symptoms of the flu include a high fever, headache, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose.
Dr. Box encourages everyone to wash hands frequently with warm, soapy water, and cover coughs by sneezing into an arm or a disposable tissue. Also, stay at home when sick to keep germs from spreading.
