Hospitalizations are on the rise for a common winter illness.
According to the CDC, hospitalizations for the flu have already passed the total number of flu hospitalizations from last year, in Ohio. Deb Roberts, Director of Nursing for Allen County Public Health said hospitalizations are already three times what they were at this time last year. Roberts said it is too early to tell if the flu vaccine is working but said that even a little protection helps in the long run. She reminds those around infants must have their shots.
"They can go, here at the health department," said Roberts. "We have it Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 to 9 and 3 to 4, it's a walk-in. Lots of outpatient centers have it, pharmacies (too). It's available, it's out there and there's really no reason why anyone doesn't get the flu shot."
Roberts said more than likely these numbers will rise over the holiday season as more people are traveling and gathering together.
