The state’s Department of of Public Health (DPH) announced Monday evening that the death of a New London County resident was the state’s first confirmed flu death for the 2022-23 season.

The person was an adult between the ages of 50 and 59 and died in November. The department said it would not release any other information on the person.

Commissioner Manisha Juthani said in a press release that as of Nov. 26, there were about 6,000 flu cases reported in the state and 102 hospitalizations. Flu season occurs between October and May, but the highest levels of flu are traditionally seen between December and March. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, chills, congestion and fatigue.

DPH said the spread of respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be prevented by washing your hands, remaining home when sick, disinfecting surfaces and masking if you have any respiratory symptoms.

DPH said Connecticut residents should make sure that they have received their annual flu shot and are up to date on COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters.

Residents can receive their flu vaccine from their health care provider, a retail pharmacy or by visiting www.vaccines.gov to find a flu vaccination clinic. Additionally, DPH and the Connecticut Immunization Coalition are partnering with local health departments throughout the state on numerous flu vaccine clinics for children and adults. The entire schedule of local health flu clinics can be accessed at www.ct.gov/dph/fluclinics.