Flu continues in Illinois; 50 deaths this season

Dr. Julie Morita, director of immunizations at the Chicago Department of Public Health, gives Gary Chavarria a flu shot at a North Side clinic Jan. 11 in Chicago. Illinois is among the 24 states across the nation hardest hit by the flu, but vaccine is still available in most locations, healt…

Flu continues in Illinois; 50 deaths this season

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. | Illinois is among 30 states reporting high flu activity in a season in which the virus is striking earlier than usual and the main flu strain is one that tends to make people sicker.

Flu epidemic kills 27, hospitalizes 369 in Illinois

The Illinois Department of Public Health is not expecting a decrease any time soon with more reported cases from previous weeks coming in, but the flu vaccine is still available and may help those with current health problems avoid the virus.

To Get a Shot or Not?

The only thing that is spreading faster than the flu these days seems to be this question: Did you get a flu shot this season?

Illinois' top doc reports some flu shot shortages

CHICAGO | Illinois' top doctor says the demand for flu shots has created some spot shortages, but he says that's good news because it means people are getting the message to protect themselves and those around them.

Advocacy group encourages elderly to get flu shots

Dr. Meeta Khan wears a face mask as she examines a respiratory patient at the Rush University Hospital emergency department on Thursday in Chicago. Flu season in the U.S. has hit early and, in some places, hard. But whether this will be considered a bad season by the time it has run its cour…

Advocacy group encourages elderly to get flu shots

CHICAGO | Illinois residents are being reminded to check on older family members during this flu season and, if needed, to help get them to clinics or a pharmacy to get a flu shot.

CDC says US flu season starts early, could be bad

Health officials on Monday said suspected flu cases have jumped in five Southern states, and the primary strain circulating tends to make people sicker than other types.

What travelers need to know about the flu season this year

As flu season approaches, germs are spreading faster than holiday cheer. Traveling through a highly populated place, such as an airport, raises the risk of contracting the seasonal flu.

Eight tips to stay healthy this flu season

Flu season is upon us, bringing with it new strains of the virus. So now is the time to brush up on all the flu-fighting facts.

Eight tips to stay healthy this flu season

Flu season is upon us, bringing with it new strains of the virus. So now is the time to brush up on all the flu-fighting facts.

Chicago's 10th Ward offering free flu shots today

CHICAGO | Alderman John Pope and the Chicago Department of Health are offering free flu shots for 10th Ward residents from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. today at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 11207 S. Ewing Ave.

Local health system mandates flu vaccine for upcoming season

For more than 10 years, Vicki has declined the free influenza vaccine offered to her by her employer, the Franciscan Alliance, for personal reasons. This year she won't have that choice. The health system is instituting a new requirement for all employees to get a flu shot this year.

Advocate South Suburban Hospital recommends flu shot for protection

HAZEL CREST | It might be hard to believe, but this year's flu season is almost upon us. Advocate South Suburban Hospital is urging everyone to get a flu shot to protect themselves against this potentially serious disease.

Flu taking toll on region, state

Don't be fooled by warmer temperatures and sunshine, this flu season is still under way. Local health care experts remind patients of the urgency to be vaccinated.

Agency won't reveal address, name of first influenza death

INDIANAPOLIS| Indiana has had its first influenza death of the 2010-2011 flu season, Dr. Gregory N. Larkin, a State Health commissioner, said Wednesday. State health officials said they will not be releasing any additional information about the individual.

State health officials warning 'stomach flu' is not influenza

INDIANAPOLIS | State health officials reminded Hoosiers Monday that the "stomach flu" is not influenza, hoping to avoid confusion during the winter flu season.