INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The first flu related death has been reported for the season.

In light of this information, the Indiana Department of Health released information about vaccinations, the virus, and how to prevent it the flu.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that everyone older than six months get a flu vaccine each year.

Infants under six months old cannot be vaccinated so it is important that those living with or interacting with them be vaccinated.

The flu is a viral infection that happens in the respiratory tract and can be passed by coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces.

The CDC recommends following the “Three C’s” to prevent the flu:

• Clean: Properly wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
• Cover: Cover your cough and sneeze into your arm or a disposable tissue.
• Contain: Stay home from school or work when you are sick to keep your germs from spreading.

Pregnant women, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and the elderly are all at high risk for getting the flu during the October through May season.