Article updated: 1/19/2013 11:46 AM

Flu continues in Illinois; 50 deaths this season

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Dr. Julie Morita, Director of Immunizations at the Chicago Dept. of Public Health, gives Gary Chavarria a flu shot at a North Side clinic .

Associated Press

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Illinois is among 30 states reporting high flu activity in a season where the virus is striking earlier than usual and the main flu strain is one that tends to make people sicker. Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold said Friday that 476 people have been admitted to hospital intensive care units with the flu this season and 50 have died. Public health officials continue to encourage people to get vaccinated.