The flu has caused at least 18,000 deaths in the United States since the start of this season, according to the latest data released Friday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
There have been at least 25 million cases and 280,000 flu hospitalizations this season in the country, according to the CDC.
Nine flu-associated pediatric deaths were reported in the week ending February 4, bringing the total number of pediatric flu deaths recorded so far this season to 106, the same source added.
In addition, more than 2,100 people were hospitalized with the flu this week.
The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get the flu shot as long as influenza activity continues.
APS
