JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – This year's flu season is already proving to be a bad one and it could last for several more weeks. Experts say the strain of the flu that was picked for this shots flu vaccine mutated so the shot isn't as effective against the new strain.
The flu is widespread in at least 43 states and we're just now in the midst of peak season.
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Doctor Erica Bilalovic with Care Spot recommends everyone still get the flu shot. Even though the vaccine isn't fully protecting against the strain that's causing people to get sick, the flu shot will still protect you from other strains and will decrease your chances of getting the flu.
"Do good hand washing, I know its been said 100 times but that's really important covering your mouth when you cough, avoding tight spaces if there are sick people," siad Bilalovic.
Other than getting the flu shot, Bilalovic said those are other things you can do to protect yourself from the flu. Due to one of the main strains predicted in this years flu shot drifting, many people are getting sick with that strain, which is called H3N2. People over the age of 65 and children are at the highest risk.
According to the latest data from the Duval County Health Department, six children died from the flu just last week bringing the total number of flu deaths in children that have been reported this season to 21.
About 40% of the public was vaccinated against flu as of November, which is about normal in recent years, but doctors hope that number will continue to rise in 2015.
Bilalovic said a child has to be six months old to get the flu shot. If they're under that, she has some recommendations.
"Everyone in the household should be protected via vaccine, I know the concern is getting kids shots if they're of that age. So anyone two and older can also get the flu mist if they're healthy and don't have other respiratory options so that's an option for protecting children who are old enough," said Bilalovic.
Bilalovic said flu and cold symptoms can be similar. If you experience any symptoms, she said to go ahead and see a doctor to make sure you're properly treated whether you have the flu or not.
"So we can clarify what they need and how we can treat them because even though you have a fever, it's not always the flu some times you need an antibiotic or it can maybe run its course," said Bilalovic.
Duval County Public Schools said they don't keep track of how many kids get the flu because it's not always reported by parents. The health department doesn't track that either but said if a school ever learns of several students having the flu in one classroom or grade that they would likely notify parents, but said it all depends on the scenario and is different with every school.
Some areas across the nation have reported shortages of Tamiflu and other prescription drugs because of the flu. Local doctors told us that is not the case here in Duval County and they haven't seen any shortages.