Memorial warning against a high rate of flu cases in its five hospitals. 

Raj Govindaiah, Memorial Health senior vice president and chief physician executive, says that this year’s strains of flu are proving to be highly contagious. 

The five hospitals have seen 104 patients hospitalized with flu this year, compared to four at this time last year. 

Govindaiah urges you to take action now to curb the spread of respiratory illness. This includes receiving your flu vaccine right away, washing your hands regularly, avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth; wear a mask around large groups of people and stay home if you feel sick. 

Flu symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. 

Govindaiah concludes with, “ It’s not too late to vaccinate… If you haven’t gotten your flu shot, there’s still time. Getting your shot this month offers protection for the majority of the flu season.”

In Taylorville, Memorial is observing 101 cases and six hospitalizations due to flu.

Springfield area has the most cases with just under 2,400 along with 69 hospitalizations.