MATTAWA - Grant County Health District (GCHD) has received more than 200 positive influenza lab reports in Grant County, According to Public Information Officer Theresa Adkinson.

Most cases are from the past two weeks and were located in Moses Lake, Quincy, and Mattawa. In addition, several Moses Lake schools are reporting 10 percent absenteeism.

The GCHD has been in communication with healthcare providers and schools as the reports of positive flu cases have started to increase, Adkison said.

"The flu is in our communities year-long but is now increasing at significant numbers, which tells us the seasonal epidemic of influenza has started," Grant County Health Officer Alexander Brzezny said.

With holiday travel under way, the GCHD urges all residents six months and older to get their flu shot as soon as possible. There is no shortage of flu vaccine, and it is widely available through clinics and pharmacies.

According to Adkison, people with the flu can make others sick one day before symptoms appear and up to 5 days after symptoms begin.

"If you are sick, please stay home," she said.

Adkison suggested you use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and throw it away. Wash your hands often. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work well when soap and warm water are not available.

According to Washington State Department of Health and the CDC, H3N2 flu viruses have been the most common type of flu circulating around the country. More than half of those viruses have changed slightly from the strain that's included in this year's flu vaccine.

Seasons when H3N2 viruses are most common tend to be more severe with higher numbers of hospitalizations and deaths. The flu vaccine still offers protection against the well-matched strains and may provide some protection against the drifted strain.

"If you're sick with flu-like sickness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, unless you need to leave to receive medical care," Brzezny said. "If your doctor prescribes antiviral medicine, finish the entire prescription."

Infants are at an increase risk for flu. Caregivers who are sick should wear a mask when caring for an infant.