95 New Flu Cases Reported In Oneida County

Oneida County Health Department Director Phyllis Ellis says the county has seen a spike in flu cases over the past few days.

95 new cases of the flu have been reported in the past week, bringing the total to 134 in Oneida county.

While that isn't as high as last years 1,500 cases, Ellis attributes the spike to holiday gatherings where germs can quickly spread.

"Whenever people get together in larger groups, with some coming from other parts of the country, the chance of spreading the flu virus increases," Ellis said.

Health department officials want to remind you that the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent getting sick.

Vaccines are available at many area retail pharmacies and at "walk-in" Health Department clinics in Utica at 406 Elizabeth Street Mondays and Thursdays from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m.

In Rome, you can get the vaccine at 300 W. Dominick Street on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

No appointments are necessary.