Douglas County has its first confirmed flu case of the season.
Health Department officials announced Tuesday that a woman over age 50 is hospitalized with the flu. Health Department Resource Director Phil Rooney says now is the time to protect yourself from the virus.
"The best thing people can do is have them get their flu shot, it does provide the best protection for you and there are a variety of choices this year to get your flu shot. And of course, other things you want to do are if you’re sick, stay home, stay away from people who are sick, and of course cover your cough and wash your hands."
The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a flu shot. Rooney says both the traditional vaccine and nasal spray are available this season.
Young children, adults 65 and older, expectant mothers, and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable to the virus and should be immunized.