The Mississippi State Department of Health says the state’s first laboratory confirmed influenza case of the 2008-2009 season is reported in the Covington County area.

State Health Officer, Dr. Ed Thompson, said the report is a “great reminder” that Mississippi residents need to get a flu shot. The agency did not identify the patient or provide other details.

Health departments and clinics throughout the state began distributing the flu vaccine in mid-October. The charge for flu vaccination is $25.

Thompson said Medicare Part B covers the cost of flu vaccination, while children ages six months through 18 years can receive flu vaccinations for $10.