Minnesota Now Has ‘Moderate’ Flu Activity, But Real Numbers Could be Higher

The flu season has been ROUGH already! I know some kids who have been down for the count for over a week this flu season. That's super long in comparison to what we usually see. This flu variant is no fun.

The Centers for Disease Control tracks cases of the flu weekly and keeps an updated map as data comes in. As of the second week of December, Minnesota wasn't looking super hot, but not nearly as bad as some other states.

ALSO READ: Remember When MN Was Featured in an Episode of 'How I Met Your Mother'?

How Bad is the Flu in Minnesota Right Now?

Minnesota, as of the numbers from the second week of December, is in the 'moderate' range for flu activity.

Of course, this is based on flu cases that were reported. If you think you had the flu but you, for example, didn't go see a doctor about it, then your flu case wouldn't be tracked. Therefore, the flu activity level in Minnesota could actually be much higher.

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How to Protect Yourself from the Flu

Obviously, we all want to be as healthy as possible, so what are some ways that we can keep ourselves healthy this cold, flu, and COVID season?

1. Avoid close contact.

This could involve wearing a mask if you want to, or just keeping your distance from others when you're out and about. I'm looking at you guy-who-stood-way-too-close-to-me-in-the-checkout-line. Seriously, you don't need to get that close to someone ever...

2. Wash your hands.

You were taught this as a kid, but wash your hands. It's a great way to stop the spread of the flu. Hand sanitizer is good too when you're out and don't have easy access to a place to wash your hands.

3. Clean frequently touched places.

In your home, make sure to clean surfaces that are touched frequently. Think light switches, door knobs, and handrails.

4. Stay home when you're sick.

This isn't a tip to keep you from getting sick, obviously, but it's a good thing to remember. I know, we've all been taught to 'tough it out', but in reality, that's not good for you or the people around you. You should get some rest, stay home, and you'll be better in no time.