flu

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has announced that Michigan has seen a 39 percent decrease in the number of school vaccination waivers submitted this year compared to the same time last year.

The weekly report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services shows levels of the flu continue to increase while staying below levels seen in recent years.

Reports of flu-like symptoms in Michigan remained steady and at seasonal highs according to the latest report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

This week's update on reports of flu-like symptoms in Michigan shows a rise in the statewide average to the highest point we've seen since last winter. However, reports from West Michigan fell and are the lowest in the state.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says reports of flu-like symptoms across Michigan continue to remain low and steady, but current rates are slightly higher than at this same point one year ago.

The slow start to the flu season continues in Michigan as reports of flu-like symptoms have leveled off after a small rise.

It's been a quiet start to the flu season in West Michigan, but statewide we are seeing the highest rate of report of flu-like symptoms since last spring.

Flu shot clinics continue to pop up around West Michigan as we keep a close eye on reported flu levels. So far, the news is good according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Vaxart is testing an oral H1N1 influenza tablet which could replace the flu shot.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is encouraging domestic bird owners to increase their biosecurity efforts and take appropriate steps to protect their birds from avian influenza.

On Thursday, health officials announced that flu shots are only 23 percent effective against this season's strain. This is not a good sign in a season where it seems more and more people are being stricken down with the flu.

The flu continues to spread quickly across Michigan and Kent County. 17% of emergency visits in Kent County last week were for flu-like symptoms, the highest rate recorded by the Kent County Health Department since 2009.