As more people test positive for the flu locally, the Denton County Public Health Department is urging residents to get vaccinated, according to a Dec. 4 news release.

“We hope the early and quick rise of flu cases within North Texas can be used as a motivator towards protection for Denton County residents,” Denton County Judge Andy Eads stated in the release. “Getting vaccinated is a community effort, and vaccinating now can help protect your children, family, and friends throughout the holiday season.”

In addition to getting vaccinated, the department recommended in the release that residents help fight the flu by visiting the doctor immediately at the first signs of sickness. The release also stated that residents can help by washing their hands often and covering their mouths when sneezing or coughing.

“[Denton County Public Health] reminds residents that as long as flu viruses are spreading and causing illness, vaccination should continue throughout the flu season in order to protect as many people as possible against flu,” the release stated.

The release stated that vaccinating helps safeguard those at highest risk of complications or death from the flu, including those who are pregnant, children younger than 5 years old, adults age 65 and older, individuals in long-term care facilities, Native Americans and Alaskan natives as well as people with chronic health conditions.