Nebraska health officials say the flu season has begun in the state, based on the number of confirmed cases over the past few weeks.
A Nebraska Health and Human Services Health Alert Network update says the rise in flu cases at the start of the holiday season underscores the importance of flu shots.
Influenza A is becoming predominant with the subtype detected in Nebraska this year, H3N2, tending to be more severe. H3N2 is also associated with a higher incidence of secondary bacterial pneumonia.
The CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices say if a patient wants a flu shot and is also due for a COVID shot or booster, both can be administered during the same office visit.
In a related item, Chadron High School is hosting a COVID booster immunization clinic today from 4:00-6:00 for all ages and with COVID first shots and flu shots also available.
It’s in the high school library with entry to the building through the main entrance on Cedar Street. Minors must have a parent or guardian present to get any shots.