Cincinnati Health Department says with flu outbreak ‘the worst could be yet to come’

CINCINNATI - The Cincinnati Health Department says if you haven't gotten the flu shot yet, do it now.

"The flu is here," said Health Department Doctor Steve Englender. "Southwest Ohio hasn't been hit as nearly as hard as other areas, but it doesn't mean it isn't coming. The worst could be yet to come."

The health department is monitoring the increased hospitalization of people infected with the flu virus. Englender says he doesn't have an exact count of those suffering from the flu because many folks don't go to the doctor once they're infected.

Englender added the health department hasn't learned of any reports of high absentee levels in schools. He said the winter break could've given kids a chance to avoid it.

He recommends to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible if you haven't done so, and to stay home from work or school if you're infected. Englender also recommends to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

The CDC and Ohio Department of Health are expected to release the latest flu statistics Friday.