Doctors say this flu season could be one of the worst in decades.
According to the CDC 50 U.S. States and territories, including Colorado, reported widespread flu activity this week. Nearly 5,000 people have died, including the recent death of an elderly patient in Cañon City.
Health officials say the best way to protect yourself is to get your flu shot, and it's not too late.
U.C. Health Urgent Care says out of 20 recent patients they've seen seven had the flu, most of them Type B.
And there's no need for a mid-season booster. If you got your shot early you should still be protected.
"There haven't been proven any type of booster shots to the flu," said Dr. Ian Tullberg. "You need one shot a year for adults, that's it."
Keep in mind it takes about two weeks after getting the flu shot to gain full immunity.
The best defense is washing your hands frequently and avoiding people who have the flu.
