According to the Health Department, the patient is located in central Mississippi. The agency’s influenza surveillance program, which helps identify representative flu cases in the state, detected the case. The flu testing is also done by healthcare providers. The statement was made by Dr. Paul Byers, State Epidemiologist. “This indicates that flu is present within the state. It also serves to remind that now is a good time to get your flu shots if you haven’t already.” The flu shot can take up to two weeks to give immunity. Flu season in Mississippi usually peak in January and March. An estimated 3,000 to 49,000 people are killed and over 200,000 are admitted to hospitals each year due to the flu.