Influenza cases in Arizona have tripled this season compared to previous seasons around this time of year, with almost half of the cases involving children 5-18 years old.
The Arizona Department of Health Services says it has seen a dramatic rise in flu cases earlier this season than past seasons. They also have seen the flu reported in every county in the state so far.
Jessica Rigler is with the Division of Public Health Preparedness.
“The flu virus changes a little from year to year, and that’s why we encourage people to be vaccinated every single year for the flu. One year’s flu vaccine may not protect you for a subsequent year," said Rigler.
Rigler says there are likely more flu cases out there that haven’t been reported. Some could be people who have gone to the doctor with flu symptoms but haven’t been tested for the flu or have symptoms and decide to stay home
