Flu Vaccine ‘Good Match to the Viruses Circulating’ in Michigan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is reporting an increase in flu activity across Michigan.

The good news is that this year's vaccine is matching well against the flu.

This week, MDHHS reported increased flu activity in the southeast and southwest regions of Michigan.

There have been 94 confirmed flu cases statewide, including 65 in the Southeast region, 14 in the Southwest region, 13 in the Central region (which includes West Michigan), and 2 in the Northern region. Of the 94 lab-confirmed cases of flu statewide, 82 are influenza A, and 12 are influenza B.

MDHHS says national data shows that the 2016-17 flu vaccine is a good match to the viruses circulating up to this point in the season.

“Because it takes about two weeks for the body to build up immunity to the flu virus after getting the flu vaccine, people should not wait to get their flu shot to stay healthy,” said Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive with the MDHHS.

Michigan ranks 42 in the nation for flu vaccination coverage, and falls below the national average for flu vaccination coverage for every age group.