KGMI News
Influzena illnesses are on the rise in Washington and the Department of Health is urging residents to get vaccinated.
Last flu season 278 people in Washington were confirmed to have died from influenza and one Whatcom County resident died in November, according to the Whatcom County Health Department.
In a news release by the Department of Health, they are urging people who are sick to stay home from holiday gatherings and not infect others.
The flu can be particuarly dangerous to young children, pregant woman and people age 65 and older.
The Department of Health said flu shots are the best way to prevent the flu and many are still available in pharmacies and through a health care provider.