MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting the first flu death in the state this season, and has raised the level of flu presence in the state to “widespread.”

The identity of the person who died has not been released.

In all, the state reports 165 people have been confirmed hospitalized with influenza this season.

The health department’s tag of “widespread” flu levels came two months earlier in 2012 than it did in 2011.

Authorities stressed that it’s not too late to get vaccinated for the flu, and that everyone should remember to practice good hygiene practices, such as covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and to wash your hands regularly.