Did you know only half of Americans get a flu shot each year? According to the CDC, 57.4 percent of children ages six months to 17 years get the flu shot, while 49.4 percent of people 18 or older get the flu shot. 

School nurse Mrs. Younce said that flu rates will increase when it gets colder because of how the cooler temperatures affect the immune system. 

“It is important to get the flu shot as we usually see an increase in respiratory cases each year,” Mrs Younce says, adding, “To avoid the flu, it is important to wash your hands and stay at home if you are sick.”  

Right now this season, there are estimated to be 330-1000 flu deaths so far and last year there were 58,000 flu deaths, according to Mrs. Younce. On the bright side, the CDC reports fewer flu cases in the Northeast and Midwest. Rates are higher in the South, Central, Southeast, and West Coast. 

Our school is doing its part to fight the flu. In October, a flu clinic was offered so that teachers and staff could get their flu shots. Many did to help keep themselves and the students healthy.