Flu season starts in Southern Nevada

Cases of the flu have been identified in Southern Nevada, and although the activity remains mild, the news provides additional impetus for people to get vaccinated and adhere to standard practices to help prevent illness.

The Southern Nevada Health District’s sentinel surveillance program has detected contagious respiratory infections caused by the influenza virus, which means flu season officially has started, health district spokeswoman Stephanie Bethel said Thursday.

Health officials recommend residents, especially those most at risk from complications from the illness, get vaccinated. To help prevent the spread of the virus: avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home if you’re sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

There are no vaccine shortages and flu shots are readily available at public health centers and drug stores.

Flu shots are $40 and $56 for the high-dose shot. Both are available at the health district.

Another illness that has made national news seems to be staying out of Nevada.

The Silver State is the only one in the lower 48 that has not reported a case of enterovirus D-68, Bethel said. None of the tests submitted by Southern Nevada public health officials to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has tested positive for the virus that has been a factor in 1,116 illnesses and 12 deaths nationwide since August.