Flu death count rises to 31, officials say

Thirty-one Arkansans have died of the flu, the Arkansas Department of Health announced Thursday.

There have been 24 deaths in people over 65 years old, four in people 45 to 64 and two in people 25 to 44 so far this season, Arkansas Department of Health spokesman Kerry Krell said.

Krell advised that people should still get a flu vaccination if they haven't received one already. The vaccine does not cover the prominent flu strain this season but Krell said the vaccine can still help decrease the severity of the illness.

The Department of Health expects the flu season to peak in January, but Krell said it's too soon to tell if that has happened.

Krell said even after flu season has peaked, deaths will still be reported because the length of the illness can vary.

The Department of Health tracks the flu for one calendar year starting Sept. 28, as well as from September through March.

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