13 Dead From Flu In WA State, Activity 'Very High'

Influenza has claimed the lives of at least 13 people so far this flu season in Washington State, and flu activity is now 'very high,' according to a new report from the Washington State Department of Health.

Among the deaths are two children and 11 adults, the report said. Six died in the Puget Sound region, two each in the east, north, and southwest regions, and one in the central region, the department reported.

Health officials reported 1,300 new flu cases in the state from November 20-26, more than double the rate in late October.

The most common symptoms of the flu, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control, are:

• fever* or feeling feverish/chills
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle or body aches
• headaches
• fatigue (tiredness)
• some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

In rare cases, the flu can cause serious symptoms including difficulty breathing, high fever, and seizures, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Anyone with severe illness should seek emergency medical care, according to the agency.

To prevent flu infection or serious illness from the flu, the Department of Health recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone aged six-months and older, including pregnant and nursing people.