Health officials with the state of Indiana are strongly urging Hoosiers to get their flu shots soon because flu cases are already being reported around the Hoosier state.

Since the 2014-20115 flu season, nearly 800 Indiana residents have died from flu-related illnesses. While the flu can be cured by vaccine, as well as by antibiotics there are several portions of the population still vulnerable to the illness including the elderly, pregnant women, young children and people with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems.

Representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend flu vaccinations be offered by late October as it takes about two weeks for protective antibodies to develop within the human body.

Flu shots can be obtained through primary care facilities, as well as many pharmacies.