The number of influenza cases in both Clarion and Venango counties has increased, according to the latest count from the state Department of Health.
For the week ending Jan. 22, a cumulative total of 134 cases of influenza had been reported in Clarion County this season. That is an increase of 38 cases above the previous week’s total.
The case count in Venango County has reached 52 cases, an increase of seven cases during the past reporting week.
Jefferson County has 285 reported cases, with nine of those cases occurring during the last reporting period.
Statewide, 30,106 people have been reported as having the flu, with 1,631 new cases being reported in the week ending Jan. 22.
The Department of Health warns the influenza infection rate is likely higher than the reported rate, as many people do not seek medical attention for the illness.
A total of 23 confirmed flu-associated deaths have been reported, according to the Department of Health. Seven of those deaths occurred in the past week. Influenza cases have been reported in all 67 Pennsylvania counties.