(CNN) - Winter is in the air and so is flu season, especially in the South. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) says flu activity, which has been increasing since the start of November, is now higher than usual for this time of year.
Five children have died, and an additional 566 flu-related hospitalizations have occurred as of Nov. 25.
The report stated that Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts and Oklahoma have reported widespread activity during the week ending Nov. 25.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a vaccine. Despite that guidance, less than half of Americans have received a shot this season.
Common concerns focus on efficacy of the vaccine and side effects.
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