Officials: Flu No Longer Widespread in RI

Thursday's decision lifts a requirement stipulating that health care employees who didn't get a flu shot wear masks when dealing with patients

Rhode Island Department of Health officials have announced that the flu is no longer a widespread concern in the state.

Affiliate WJAR-TV reports Thursday's decision lifts a requirement stipulating that health care employees who didn't get a flu shot wear masks when dealing with patients.

The flu was declared widespread in Rhode Island on March 2.

Department of Health officials told WPRI-TV that 430,000 residents have received their flu shots so far this year. Last year, 445,000 were vaccinated at this time.

Health Director Nicole Alexander-Scott said flu season isn't over and there's still is time to get the shot.

Department of Health officials say everyone older than 6 months should be vaccinated against the flu every year.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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