Indiana Health Officials Announce First Two Flu Deaths of Season

The Indiana Department of Health Thursday confirmed the first two flu-related deaths of the season, which is typically October through May. Officials say more than 270 Hoosiers died after contracting influenza during the 2022-23 flu season. “Influenza can quickly become a serious, even life-threatening illness for some Hoosiers,” said State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP. “While no two flu seasons are exactly alike, we always recommend getting an annual flu shot as soon as possible to provide the best protection against becoming seriously ill.”  Hoosiers are encouraged to get vaccinated and practice the “Three Cs”: Clean: Properly wash hands with warm, soapy water; Cover: Cover your cough and sneeze with your arm or disposable tissue; and Contain: Stay home from school or work when you are sick to prevent the spread of germs. Click here to learn more about influenza or to view the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) weekly flu report. Flu season data is reflected on the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) influenza dashboard each week and will be updated on Fridays. Note that due to reporting timeframes, one death will be reflected on the November 3 update and the second on November 13. The dashboard also contains historical flu surveillance data, broken down by county, region, and age group.