The flu season is hitting Hawaii residents a little harder than usual this year. Hospitals and urgent care facilities are reporting an influx of people with flu symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the current vaccine is only 23% effective, but experts say that it shouldn’t stop people from getting them. Dr. Sarah Park is the Chief Epidemiologist for the Disease outbreak control division of Hawaii. She says that the rising levels here match those on the mainland, but despite the numbers so far, this flu season is still developing.
Park says that even though the virus is a little stronger, people should continue to take precautions like getting vaccinated, washing their hands, and staying home while sick.
More information on flu prevention can be found here.