State officials say less Nebraskans are getting the flu this year, compared to previous years.

The state has only three confirmed flu cases. But officials say, there's likely more that have not been confirmed.

They believe it's because the vaccine this year was a good match.

Also, the flu is running behind. Usually cases start to pile up just after Christmas.

Since they haven't, officials say its the perfect time to get the vaccine.

Drive on up and get your flu vaccine.

"The flu vaccine that we're using is called FluMist and it's delivered through the nasal passage," said Kimberly Plouzek, emergency coordinator for
Public Health Solutions District Health Department.

"It works great, just be able to drive through and it's quick and easy and painless," said Robert McFarland of Geneva.

The mist offers a painless solution, unlike a needle in the arm.

"The shot is a dead virus which will give you approximately two to three months of protection, and the mist is a live virus which will give you up to 11 months of protection," said Plouzek.

"There are certain people that we want to make sure don't get the live virus vaccine, but that's not very many folks," said Dr. Joanne Schaefer,
Nebraska Chief Medical Officer. "People should talk to their doctor whether or not they should be qualified for the flu mist."

People like McFarland, a Fillmore County sheriff's deputy, are helping to stop the spread of the flu virus.

"Being in emergency services, I also work part time as an EMT, and so I'm going to be in high contact with people that come across the flu virus a lot," he said. "So I thought this was the best way to get protected."

"We really want to stop that spread because there are folks out there that carry around chronic health conditions," said Schaefer. "Especially the elderly and the very young, when they get the flu it can be deadly."

That's why a shot in the arm, or a drive-by spray to the nose is so important.

"I've had the flu several times. Also had the flu shot on a number of occasions and I certainly prefer this method over needles in the arm," said McFarland.

If you're under two years old or over 50, officials recommend that you not use the flu mist.

For more information on Public Health Solution's drive-thru clinics, check out the Hot Button on our homepage.