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Two flu deaths in Nebraska this season

The flu is now widespread in Nebraska, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

A Lancaster County child is the state’s second death this season from the flu. Both flu deaths have been in Lancaster County. The first was a man in his 60s.

Dr. Joann Schaefer, Nebraska’s Chief Medical Officer, says it isn’t too late to get vaccinated, and children are among the groups most susceptible to the virus. The elderly, people with chronic health conditions, and expectant mothers are also among the most vulnerable to complications from the flu. The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older be vaccinated against the flu.

The Douglas County Health Department says 515 cases of the flu have been reported so far this season. The Sarpy/Cass Department of Health and Wellness has recorded 29 cases.

There are two forms of the flu vaccine available: the traditional flu shot, and a nasal spray version.