Autumn marks the start of respiratory virus season, when colds, flu, and other infections spread rapidly through schools and homes.
With many end-of-the-year gatherings already happening, the Minnesota Department of Health says there has been an uptick in respiratory disease activity across the state in recent weeks.
The number of flu hospitalizations in Minnesota has more than doubled since Thanksgiving, the department said in a Dec. 18 news release. More than 500 people in the state have been hospitalized with flu so far this season, according to the department's website.
"Now is the time to get vaccinated - it's not too late. Don't risk missing out on gatherings and celebrations or, maybe worse, spreading a respiratory disease to a loved one," Dr. Brooke Cunningham, the state's health commissioner, said in the news release.
The state's health officials have also noticed an increase in the number of COVID-19 and RSV cases, though overall those viruses aren't as prevalent as flu.
Here's what to know about flu season in Minnesota.
Where can I get a flu shot in Minnesota?
A flu shot can help prevent illness and lower the risk of hospitalization and death for anyone who does become infected. The health department recommends everyone 6 months or older get a flu shot every year.
While flu shots are available at a variety of locations, the health department says people can typically start with their regular clinic, health care provider or a local pharmacy. For more information, visit the health department's "Where to Get Vaccinated" page.
The vaccines are covered by most insurance plans, but anyone without insurance can get free or low-cost vaccines through the Minnesota Vaccines for Children program and the Uninsured and Underinsured Adult Vaccine program.
What else can I do to protect myself from the flu?
Other than getting vaccinated, health officials recommend people take the following steps to prevent the spread of disease: