Health officials are urging Rhode Islanders to get vaccinated and take precautions as respiratory virus activity reaches high levels across the state.
This flu season, 496 people have been hospitalized with influenza and seven have died from flu-related causes, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health. An additional 297 people have been hospitalized with COVID-19, with 14 related deaths during the same period.
“Flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses have already sent hundreds of Rhode Islanders to the hospital over the last several months, and many others have had to miss work, school, and other activities,” said Jerry Larkin, the state’s director of health.
Rhode Island is experiencing a significant, early peak in flu activity, a trend seen in other states as well.
Larkin said it is not too late to get a flu shot, as the virus typically circulates in Rhode Island until spring.
“Vaccination now can still help protect against serious health complications from the flu for several more months,” he said.
Health officials recommend flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. COVID-19 vaccinations are recommended for children 6 months to 2 years and adults 19 and older, including pregnant women. Parents of healthy children ages 2 to 18 should consult a healthcare provider about COVID-19 vaccination.
Officials also recommend staying home for at least 24 hours after symptoms improve and fever subsides, washing hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, and covering coughs and sneezes.
People at higher risk for serious illness include older adults, nursing home residents, immunocompromised individuals and those with underlying conditions such as diabetes, obesity, cancer or heart or lung disease.