Flu Widespread in Arizona with 2,976 Cases Reported

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The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) announced that flu is widespread in the state and encouraged people to get vaccinated.

As of December 20, the ADHS said the number of reported flu cases increased 758% to 2,976. This is the highest number of seasonal cases recorded by the state since influenza test became reportable.

Arizona did not see widespread activity during the past two seasons. During the same period last year, the agency recorded 347 influenza cases only.

This week, Pinal County reported that an elderly resident died of influenza. The first reported influenza death of the season in the county.

Now is the time to get a flu shot

Dr. Cara Christ, director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, said, “Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your family, and with the disease spreading quickly in Arizona the time to get vaccinated is now.”

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to hospitalization and death.