Cross-posted from Public Health Insider

Public Health has reported four deaths from complications of the flu in King County, two children and two adults. This is shaping up to be a bad flu season; the positivity rate for flu tests is much higher at this early point in the flu season than we’ve seen in many years, and the volume of cases is increasing rapidly. Everyone six-months-old and older should get a flu shot every year. Find a flu shot clinic near you.

• Get your flu shot and updated COVID-19 booster now. There’s no vaccination against Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV). However, getting vaccinated for other respiratory viruses – COVID-19 and the flu — will help keep you safer and help protect our fragile healthcare system. It is safe to get both flu and COVID vaccines at the same time if the individual is due for them.
• Wash hands regularly.
• Wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when in indoor public spaces.
• If you feel sick – even if you test negative for COVID-19 – stay home. This is particularly important if you’re going to be around young children, older adults, pregnant people, or people who have underlying medical conditions.

Read more on Public Health Insider.