Indiana reports the first flu-related deaths for 2023–2024

Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indiana Department of Health said on Thursday that two Hoosiers had passed away from the flu, making them the state’s first fatalities of the 2023–24 flu season.

Details regarding the individuals’ identities and causes of death were withheld. The Department of Health referenced privacy legislation.

The state of Indiana updates its influenza dashboard every Friday from October through May, while flu season is in effect. The majority of the 1,230 flu-related cases registered by the state at the end of last week were among children and young people.

According to a news release, more than 270 Hoosiers lost their lives to the flu during the 2022–2023 season.

For the week ending Friday, October 21, there was little nationwide flu activity, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Fluview report, which is updated every week.

“Influenza can quickly become a serious, even life-threatening illness for some Hoosiers,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver. “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.”

The flu shot is available at pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and some schools and workplaces. To locate a site close to you, go to vaccines.gov.