(WWJ) An urgent message from health officials in Metro Detroit: Get vaccinated against the flu.
Michigan health officials said flu activity is rising statewide, with flu-related hospitalizations up 40% compared to last year. Influenza is spreading alongside RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and pertussis, placing infants and young children at the greatest risk for severe illness
Michigan remains one of 26 states where influenza-like illnesses are "very high," according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
According to the CDC, Michigan is currently among the states with the most flu cases across the U.S.
In Wayne County, the Wayne County Public Health Department says flu and RSV levels are now "very high" — and they predict cases will continue to increase yet this flu season.
Symptoms can include wheezing, a bad headache, fever, body aches, a sore throat and more, according to Wayne County Chief Medical Officer Dr. Avani Sheth.
Sheth said no age group is immune.
"Flu is impacting everyone at the moment," Sheth said, in an interview Wednesday with WWJ Newsradio 950's Pat Vitale. "But in terms of what, you know, is driving our emergency room visits and hospitalizations, we're seeing a really big impact in our kids, in our children— in our young children that are especially, especially impacted."
"But, definitely, there's a rise across all ages in Wayne County," she added.
In Wayne County, officials say only about 23% of residents received the 2025-26 flu vaccine.
Sheth is disappointed by the rates she's seeing.
"About a quarter of our out Wayne County population has chosen to get the flu shot. Thankfully, in our older groups — the 65 and older — the percentage is about higher," she said. "About half of our older folks have chosen the flu vaccine, so that's good to see."
Sheth said the flu shot may not stop you from getting sick, but it's the most powerful tool to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and even death.
[Where to get a flu vaccine in Michigan]
There are a number of places in Metro Detroit where you can get flu vaccine including your local health department, vaccination clinics, doctors' offices, retail pharmacies, and some schools and workplaces. Most flu shots are free, or low cost with insurance. For those who are uninsured or underinsured there are options available. Get more information here.