RALEIGH -- The State Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen got her flu shot and she's encouraging everyone to do the same.

It was part of an employee flu shot clinic in Raleigh Thursday.

The state's first flu surveillance report of the season was also released Thursday morning and so far there have been no reported flu deaths in the state.

However, doctors have seen some flu cases so far this season. They say, because the flu can be a deadly virus, the time to get your flu shot is now.

“It's so important that everyone takes the opportunity to get their flu shot right now,” said Cohen. “Just got my flu shot. It doesn't hurt and it's really important to keep you healthy and well to protect yourself and your family. Flu season is upon us so you need to get your flu shot right now."

Last season, 219 flu deaths were reported in North Carolina. Most of the deaths were people over the age of 65.

Officials say it's too soon to tell what this year's flu season will look like, but vaccination is the key.