While lawmakers in neighboring states debate loosening vaccine requirements for school-aged children, Ohio is facing a frightening example of how quickly potentially dangerous (and deadly) illnesses can spread.

In fact, doctors in the Buckeye State are stressing that even at this point in the season, it is important to get vaccinated against influenza. Among those urging getting the flu shot was Dr. Mia Antinone, Ohio Health’s family resident physician, who spoke with WSYX after the state recorded its first pediatric flu death of the 2024-25 season.

“There’s been so many viral illnesses going around,” she told the news station. ” … The flu shot is not meant for you to not get the flu. It’s to protect you from getting hospitalized and having a really severe case of the flu.”

And in a state where flu is spreading like wildfire, vaccination is an important personal and public safety measure.

The Ohio Department of Health recommends checking here — vaccines.gov/en/ — to find a provider.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for three weeks now Ohio has been at the very highest level of influenza activity. In the week ending Feb. 15, the number of Ohioans who had to be hospitalized because of the flu increased 25.75%.

Surely we did not learn so little about how to stem the spread of a potentially deadly illness after dealing with COVID-19. Get vaccinated, stay distanced, (if you are sick, stay at home or isolated), cover your coughs and sneezes, wash and sanitize your hands often, wear a mask while in public if you prefer. … we all know the drill.

But knowing and doing are two different things. Take the precautions we know work, folks.