MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — Two more people have died and another 226 have been sent to the hospital in Minnesota due to influenza, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

Officials say since the start of the influenza season, four people have died and 578 have been hospitalized.

The Department of Health reminds that good hand washing and hygiene practices, such as covering your cough, can prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses that are prevalent this time of year.