NORWICH – Chenango County has 220 laboratory confirmed influenza cases for 2012-2013, up from 30 cases in 2011-2012, according to the public health department.

For this current flu season, the first confirmed case in the county was reported in November. The age range for cases is 2 months to 100 years old. There have been no deaths reported due to the virus.

Patient Services Director Marianne C. Kirsch said the numbers only reflect those persons who were actually tested. Many others most likely have had the disease, but were not tested, she said yesterday.

“We get concerned when the disease rate is higher than expected. With flu, our best protection is to get immunized and practice good hand washing and respiratory etiquette. Persons who are ill should stay away from others and not go out in public or attend work or school,” she said, adding that covering a cough/sneeze and proper disposal of tissues are very important.

It’s not too late to get a flu shot. The Chenango County Public Health Department is providing the vaccine for county residents ages 6 months and above at no cost. The fees have been waived due to the increased number of flu cases, in hopes that residents who have not accessed vaccine will do so now.