Utica, NY (WIBX) - The Oneida County Health Department says lab testing has confirmed 94 cases of influenza over the last week within the county.

That's alarming in that last year, the first confirmed case in the county didn't come until late December, according to Public Information Officer Ken Fanelli.

While about 100 cases isn't exactly an epidemic, Fanelli says those are lab confirmed cases, so the actual number of cases is likely much higher.

"[When people feel ill] they don't see their physician or don't seek medical attention and just write it off as a bad cold, when in fact it could be the flu."

He says there are a few things you can do to stop the spread of the flu, including:

  • frequent and thorough hand washing
  • cough or sneeze into the bend of your arm, not your hands
  • avoid people with flu like symptoms
  • if you are sick, stay home from work or school

Fanelli says the Oneida County Health Department offers walk-in clinics for the influenza vaccine, along with many local physicians and drug stores.

The health department's clinics are held in Utica, at 406 Elizabeth Street on Mondays and Thursdays from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. And in Rome, at 300 West Dominick Street on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 3:00.

The cost for those who are not covered by Medicaid, Medicare Part B and an accepted insurance is $25.00.

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