13 flu deaths this week, Ind. toll now 40

Forty flu-related deaths have been confirmed in the state, Indiana health officials reported Wednesday — 13 of them in the last week.

According to the Indiana State Department of Health, 33 of the 40 deadly cases were senior citizens. Two of the victims were younger than 18 years old.

In recent weeks, concerned citizens swarmed urgent care facilities and drop-in clinics to receive the vaccination. Governor Mike Pence issued a release Jan. 17 indicating that he, too, received the vaccination, citing that it was not too late. The flu season typically spans from October to May.

“While everyone should get their flu vaccine, individuals with underlying medical conditions are clearly at high risk this season and absolutely need to be vaccinated,” State Health Commissioner William C. VanNess II said in a press release. “Flu activity remains high and we simply don’t know if it has peaked yet. Continue to wash your hands often, cover your cough and stay home if you are sick.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that this season’s vaccination is about 62 percent effective, according to the release.

The vaccination is recommended for those six months and older and especially encouraged for those at higher risk of acquiring the flu. This includes pregnant women, young children, people with chronic illnesses, those with compromised immune systems and the elderly.

An online flu shot locator is available to access at statehealth.in.gov and flu.gov.

— Michael Majchrowicz