Child Flu Deaths Climb To 84 Nationwide, 4 In Illinois

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention on Friday reported 22 more child deaths related to flu or flu complications, bringing the total number of pediatric deaths to 84 this flu season. Here in Illinois, flu remains widespread, with the Illinois Department of Public Health reporting that four children have died during the current flu outbreak. That's two more pediatric deaths since Jan. 27, according to IDPH.

According to the CDC, most of the children who have died this year had not received a flu vaccination.

Flu is still categorized as widespread in Illinois and much of the country, according to health officials. Illinois and most other states continued to report "high" flu activity, with flu season still in full swing.

Typically, flu season begins in October and peaks between December and February, although flu activity can continue until as late as May, according to the CDC.

Illinois reported 193 ICU admissions in the week ending Feb. 10, bringing the total flu-related intensive care admissions this season to 1,526.

The best protection against the flu is vaccination, and health officials have been stressing that it's not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccine shortages have been reported in some areas as the flu season drags on. The best way to find pharmacies providing the vaccine is to check at Vaccine Finder. The website reminds people to call and check with a vaccine provider location to ensure that the vaccine is available.

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Image: AP Photo/Ted S. Warren