INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Indiana health officials are encouraging state residents to get vaccinated against the flu. 

The Indiana Department of Health cautioned Thursday against complacency just because flu season is off to a slow start. Health Commissioner Jerome Adams says the vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu, as well as serious complications the virus can cause. 

Health officials encourage people to get vaccinated as soon as possible because the vaccine can take up to two weeks to become fully effective.

Flu symptoms include headache, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, sore throat and a body temperature greater that 100 degrees.

People can avoid the virus and prevent its spread by washing their hands and covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze.