29 More Flu-Related Deaths In Indiana

ACROSS INDIANA -- It's been a few days since my last weekly Indiana flu-cases update thanks to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), but in that time there have been almost 30 more flu-related deaths across the state. Yes, 136 deaths this last week (starting Jan. 27) compared to 107 the week of Jan. 20, according to a report from the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). Indiana's flu activity is at the highest, widespread level. Please see below for what you need to do to protect yourself and others from this season's dangerous flu:

Therefore because of yet another recent spike in flu-related deaths across the state, ISDH is urging Hoosiers to take precautions against influenza.

According to ISDH, there have now been 83 long-term care facility outbreaks this season (up from 69 since the last report) - putting these patients at risk. ISDH adds that pregnant women, young children, people with chronic illnesses and individuals whose immune systems are compromised are also at risk.

Influenza is a viral infection spread by droplets released by coughs or sneezes from an infected person, or when people touch things contaminated with the infectious respiratory droplets, and then touch their eyes, mouth or nose.

Hoosiers can help prevent the spread of flu by practicing the "Three Cs" of infection prevention:

• Clean: Properly wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
• Cover: Cover your cough and sneeze into your arm or a disposable tissue.
• Contain: Stay home when you are sick to keep your germs from spreading.

Common symptoms of the flu include: