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Flu season update

January 27, 2012

Ciara Nagy is getting her flu shot even though it's been a mild season so far.

"I have two kids. I figured I was better safe than sorry," she said.

The Centers for Disease Control says even though flu cases are down this year, people should still get vaccinated. Experts say it's not unusual to have a slow start  to the season, and then a dramatic increase in late winter.

"We have heard reports from state health departments that help us track that information that they're seeing more positive specimens," said Dr. Michael Jhung of the Centers for Disease Control. "We expect to see some increase in activity shortly."

Doctors aren't exactly sure why the flu hasn't been spreading, but warmer temperatures this winter may be playing a role.

"In the sense that a milder winter might lead to people doing more activities outside, staying indoors less, being around sick people less; it may have something to do with that," Jhung said.

The low flu activity may also be a sign that people are getting vaccinated. Dr. Len Horovitz says if you haven't had your shot yet, get it now.

"It's never too late to get vaccinated," Horovitz said.

Nagy isn't taking any chances.

"Hopefully I don't get the flu," she said.

Because she can't afford to be sick this winter.

According to the CDC, eight adults have died from the flu and pneumonia this season. No children have died. Last year, 122 children died.