The first lab-confirmed flu case of the season has hit Grand Erie region.

Typically the respiratory season begins around October and can extend into May, Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) said in a news release.

After symptoms — like a fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, sore throat and fatigue — begin, people can be infectious for up to a week.

“The flu can be severe and even life-threatening for vulnerable members of our community, including infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions,” Dr. Jason Malenfant, acting medical officer of health for GEPH, said in the release.

Flu shots can help people older than six months protect themselves — and others — from several strains of the virus.

People who are high risk can start getting flu shots in early-to-mid October,

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