The flu season is starting to slow down in the First State, but health officials continue to urge Delawareans to take precautions against the virus.
Officials from Delaware’s Division of Public Health say they’re starting to see a decline in lab-confirmed weekly cases.
During the week of Feb. 24, there were about 890 cases. The week before that, there were over 1,500.
However, the division also announced five more people have died from the flu. This season’ death toll is 28.
In a statement, DPH Director Karyl Rattay said though her division believes the season has peaked, the flu will likely remain in the First State for a few more weeks.
"We strongly encourage everyone to continue practicing the important preventive measures we have been promoting including staying home when you’re sick, calling your doctor at the first signs of flu-like illness, washing your hands frequently, and covering coughs and sneezes," Rattay said.
Delaware has seen almost 6,700 lab-confirmed cases of the flu during the 2017-2018 flu season. Health officials say that’s the highest number since they began keeping records in 2004.
The Division of Public Health says people can still get their flu shots.
On Tuesday, March 6 - they’ll hold a flu shot clinic from 9 a.m. - noon and 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Adams State Service Center, 544 S. Bedford St. in Georgetown. On Wednesday, they’ll hold one from 9 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Williams State Service Center, 805 River Rd. in Dover.
More information about the free flu clinics can be found here.
