MSDH reports first lab confirmed case of flu for 2018-19 season

The Mississippi State Department of health has reported the first case of lab confirmed influenza in Missisippi this season, according to a press release from the agency.

While flu cases have been diagnosed and treated by healthcare providers throughout the state already this season, this is the first case confirmed in the MSDH Public Health Laboratory, detected through the Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) Sentinel Surveillance System, according to the MSDH.

“This not only indicates that flu is present in the state, but it also serves as a reminder that now is the time to get your flu shot if you haven’t done so already,” said MSDH Interim State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs. “The flu shot takes one to two weeks to produce immunity, and flu season usually peaks in January through March in Mississippi.”

The Department reminds everyone that most insurance companies provide a flue shot or children can get a $10 shot at health departments.