Health officials in North Dakota report widespread influenza activity

For the first time in this influenza season, the North Dakota Department of Health reports widespread influenza activity.

According to the department, 1,810 influenza cases identified in the laboratory have been reported so far this season. A lot of them are under 10 years old.

The department notes that only 44% of children in North Dakota aged 6 months to 4 years are currently vaccinated.

"All people 6 months of age and older should be vaccinated, regardless of age or health status," said Jenny Galbraith, immunization surveillance coordinator for the NDDoH. "Everyone can get the flu, including healthy people, and getting the flu shot is the easiest and safest way to protect yourself, your friends and family.

During the 2017-2018 influenza season, 185 pediatric deaths were reported in the United States. About 80% of the deaths occurred in children who did not receive influenza vaccine.

People who have not yet received their flu shot this season should receive it as soon as possible, as it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide complete protection.

For more information on vaccine availability, individuals should contact their local public health unit, health care provider, or pharmacist.