Altogether, 4 people have died of complications from the flu this year, according to the weekly influenza report from the state Department of Health and Human Services.
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State officials say the flu is now widespread in Minnesota after a slow start to the season.
The number of flu-like illnesses reported by a network of outpatient clinics in the state hit a seasonal high last week, according to the report.
Minnesota Department of Health epidemiologist Karen Martin says this year’s flu season remains mild compared with other years.
In upholding a lower court ruling, the four justices say the Legislature delegated broad authority to the department to preserve and improve public health, and attempting to minimize patient exposure to influenza “falls comfortably” within that. Last year’s vaccine performed poorly during an especially severe flu season.
Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems are encouraged to contact their doctor as soon as flu symptoms develop.
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“The single best way to protect against flu and its consequences is to get the flu vaccine”.
