With flu reaching epidemic levels, the death toll is rising in Illinois. The most recent numbers show that, 27 have died in the state, and nearly four hundred have been hospitalized. The IllinoisMore >> With flu reaching epidemic levels, the death toll is rising in Illinois. More >>
CHICAGO (AP) -- Authorities say the risk
of flu infection remains high in Illinois,
but there's plenty of vaccine available.
Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold said
Friday that 368 people in the state have been admitted to hospital intensive
care units with the flu this season and 27 have died.
Most of the hospitalizations and deaths are among people in their 50s
and older. No children have died.
Health officials expect an increase in the number of hospitalizations
and deaths as more doctors and hospitals report cases from previous weeks along
with their current cases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists Illinois among the 24 states hardest hit by
the flu.
Officials say hand washing and staying home when you're sick can keep
the flu from spreading.
