Influenza activity is now widespread in Arizona with more than 750 cases reported in Arizona last week. That’s more than double the number of cases from last week. There have been nearly 3,300 lab-confirmed cases reported this influenza season in our state, but we know that this is just the tip of the iceberg. We tend to see our case counts peak in February and March.

Influenza is a serious disease. In Arizona alone, more than 4,000 people are hospitalized and about 700 people die from influenza each season. Influenza is predictably unpredictable. We don’t know how many people will become ill. But we do know there are things you can do to protect yourself and your family from getting the flu.

It’s not too late to get your influenza shot. The influenza vaccine is the best way to prevent influenza. A few minutes of your time can save you a trip to the ER. In addition to getting your influenza shot, it’s important to wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and stay home when you’re sick.

Our disease detectives track influenza cases every season. Sign up to receive our weekly influenza and RSV reports here.