WOOD COUNTY, OH (Toledo News Now) -
It's a particularly harsher flu season than in years past. The Wood County Health Department is seeing a higher number of cases at a much earlier time.
Every year the Wood County Health Department urges the public to get their flu vaccination, and this year, it's stressing it even more.
Across the country, hospitals are reporting a record number of emergency room visits related to flu-like symptoms. There are also a higher number of cases in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan as well.
"Actually we're seeing the flu come earlier this year, so we've seen more cases earlier in the season than we would normally," said Amy Jones, with the Wood County Health Department.
As a result, the department says it has had more people come in for flu shots.
"We've had just lately, in the last few days, even more people coming in for flu shots. Prior to that, it was probably a typical year for us. But lately yes, we've seen an increase in vaccination rates," said Jones.
Many people in the community have yet to get their flu shots.
"I haven't. I haven't really thought about it too much," said Rick Solether.
"I usually don't get sick, but when I do get sick, it's bad. So I don't know. I haven't gotten a flu shot ever," said Camille Smith.
"No, just been kinda busy," said Jeff Risser. "Just kinda been too busy to make the time, I guess."
Although many have not gotten the shot, they have thought about it, and even taken some precaution to prevent getting sick.
"I try to clean my house weekly, so I don't get sick," said Smith.
The Wood County Health Department still has flu shots available for $20 for adults and $10 for children and urges individuals to get vaccinated.
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