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Last updated on Thursday, January 4, 2018
(UNDATED) - As of Dec. 23, the Department of Health says the total number of flu-related deaths is now nine in the Hoosier state.
Eight of the deaths occurred in those 50 and older. The first death was in a child under the age of 18.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the flu is now considered widespread in Indiana and 35 other states. Officials say the outbreak is bad.
The CDC says bitter cold temperatures are making matters worse with a grim outlook for the rest of the flu season - which peaks around February.
Flu symptoms include fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, cough and a sore throat. The illness typically passes within a few days but can be especially dangerous to the very young, the very old, pregnant women and those with respiratory problems.
Influenza can develop into pneumonia, an infection that causes the lungs' air sacs to become inflamed and fill with fluid.
While flu vaccination is still recommended for people who have not yet gotten vaccinated, antiviral drugs are an important second line of defense that can be used to treat flu illness. CDC recommends the use of antiviral drugs as early as possible to treat flu illness in people who are very sick with flu and those at high risk of serious flu complications.
The H1N3 flu strain has been the most prevalent this season.
The CDC says 24 people have died from flu complications this season in the United States. A total of 12 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reported for the 2017-2018 season.
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