Flu Season Off to Early Start in Dane County
Flu activity is increasing earlier than expected in Dane County, and Public Health is encouraging everyone ages 6 months and older to get their annual flu shot sooner than later. The latest update of the Respiratory Illness Dashboard shows flu cases in area emergency departments are increasing earlier in the season across most age groups. Flu has also been detected in wastewater and school air samples earlier than in recent years.
"While overall rates are still low, we don't usually see these kinds of increases in activity for at least another month. We know it can be easy to put off vaccination, but you don't want to wait until flu is widespread in the community. Getting vaccinated now gives your body time to build protection before you're exposed," said Janel Heinrich, Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County.
Public Health works closely with the Lungfish program. The UW-Madison researchers who lead the grant-funded school air monitoring program are reporting flu in school air samples before October this year. In September, they found flu in air samples in 3 of 27 schools, compared to 0 in the same schools last year at this time.
Public Health offers free flu and COVID vaccines to eligible children and uninsured adults in Dane County. Appointments are available now both in regular clinic locations and at upcoming school vaccination clinics at the Holtzman Center (333 Holtzman Rd., Madison, WI).
Families who have insurance that covers vaccinations should reach out to their healthcare provider or a local pharmacy to schedule an appointment.
Getting the flu and COVID vaccines at the same appointment ensures you're fully protected, heading into another respiratory virus season.
"Respiratory illnesses can be especially hard on older adults, young children, people who are pregnant and people with certain chronic health conditions. Staying up to date on all recommended vaccines, including your flu shot, is one of the best ways to lower your risk of getting seriously sick," said Heinrich.
Stay informed with up-to-date respiratory illness data all season long through the Respiratory Illness Dashboard. The dashboard, including key takeaways, is updated on Thursdays.