By Tim Mastro

DOVER — There have been seven lab-confirmed cases of the flu in Delaware for the current season, according to the Delaware Division of Public Health’s most recent data.

The cases involved two individuals from New Castle County, two from Kent County and three from Sussex. The latest DPH report reflects data as of Nov. 13.

DPH said the data only included lab-confirmed cases — the actual number of cases statewide is likely higher, as not all people with the flu seek treatment. Additionally, many instances of the illness are diagnosed through rapid tests in a provider’s office instead of via a lab.

Flu season began in October and will typically last until some time between March and May, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The peak is usually by the end of February, according to CDC, but sometimes, that surge can spread into March.

Delaware posted its best flu season in 2020-21, reporting only one flu-related death and 11 lab-confirmed cases. It was the lowest flu-case total since DPH began tracking cases in 2004-05, beating the previous mark of 267 from the 2011-12 season.

It was a strong contrast to the year prior: In 2019-20, 7,075 cases were reported to DPH, and 400 individuals ended up hospitalized. There were also 11 recorded deaths due to the flu that year.

Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, participating medical providers’ offices, DPH clinics and at federally qualified health centers for their patients. The vaccine can be administered at the same time as a COVID-19 inoculation.

Delawareans can find more information on flu vaccines here. Search for vaccines by ZIP code here.