Jefferson County Health Commissioner Nicole Balakos is urging residents to remain focused on the risk of seasonal flu.

The Ohio Department of Health reports the number of new influenza-related hospitalizations last week was the highest yet of the 2019-2020 flu season. From January 26 to February 1, a total of 832 people were newly hospitalized — an increase of more than 36 percent over the previous week of flu reporting.

ODH said in January, five Jefferson County residents were hospitalized for flu-related illness.

She added that it’s never too late to get the flu shot and everyone over six months old should get one if their physician recommends it.