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An opioid epidemic. High smoking rates. Health care provider shortages. Indiana faces serious public health challenges. Side Effects Public Media provides in-depth coverage of these issues and more.

Indiana Reports First Flu Death

(NIAID.NIH.gov)

Indiana has reported the first flu-related death of the season. The Marion County Public Health Department confirmed the death occurred there. 

Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box commented on death in a written statement.

"This is a tragic reminder that we should never underestimate how serious the flu can be,” said Box. 

Health officials encourage anyone six months and older get a seasonal flu shot. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of complications from influenza. Flu season typically runs from October to May.

There were 113 reportedinfluenza related deaths flu deaths in Indiana last year.

This story was produced by Indiana Public Broadcasting, a statewide collaborative covering Indiana news. Contact Jill at jsheridan@wfyi.org or follow her on Twitter at @JillASheridan.