MINOT, ND ( KXNET ) — Flu cases are up this year in the state, sitting at around 68 as of Monday, September 30. But, what type of flu are state residents experiencing?

Leaders from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services say the flu and stomach flu are very different viruses: Influenza is a respiratory illness, while the stomach flu is a gastrointestinal virus. However, health officials say there are things you can do now to stop these conditions — like getting a vaccine.

Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies and clinics. HHS leaders say that after you get a flu vaccine, the virus is only 40-60% as effective as it would normally be.

“If you have what influenza,” explained HHS Immunization and Services Coordinator Danni Pinnick, “you are more likely to have symptoms of respiratory distress — maybe trouble breathing, coughing, and related symptoms all over your body. You might feel achy and feverish.”

Pinnick recommends that women giving birth during the respiratory season get vaccinated before doing so because children aged under six months cannot receive a flu shot.

If you don’t want to get the flu vaccine health officials say you can still help prevent it. The best ways to do so are by washing your hands, sanitizing surfaces, and staying home when you are sick.

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