The Indiana State Department of Health confirmed the first flu-related death of the 2018-19 flu season Nov. 2.
Here are three things to know:
1. ISDH did not disclose the patient's age or identity.
2. Indiana State Health Commissioner Kris Box, MD, said the state does not usually see flu deaths this time of the year.
"We don't typically see flu-related deaths this early in the season, but flu viruses circulate year-round and can have heartbreaking consequences at any time," Dr. Box told WIBC. "I encourage anyone who hasn't gotten a flu shot to get one to help protect themselves and their loved ones."
3. Indiana reported minimal activity of influenza-like illness across the state, with about 17 percent of specimens sent to ISDH testing positive for flu the week ended Oct. 27.
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