(COLDWATER) - There's been a rise in the number of reported cases of respiratory illnesses over the last two weeks.
According to the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency, those cases include flu and COVID-19.
Statewide surveillance shows Michigan's Influenza activity this previous week is "High". But it's not too late to get vaccinated to reduce your risk of severe illness or hospitalization.
CHA Medical Director Dr. Karen Luparello says they are encouraging everyone 6 months and older to get the flu shot as a simple way to protect yourself and keep those around you healthy. She says vaccines for flu, COVID, pertussis or whooping cough, pneumonia and RSV are widely available around the area, including local pharmacies, your physician's office and at your local CHA office.
For more information you can contact the CHA office closest to you. In St. Joseph County the number to call is 269-273-2161, extension 297. In Branch County the number is 517-279-9561, extension 197 and in Hillsdale County the number to call is 517-437-7395, extension 397.