CDC: Flu reaches epidemic level

The flu continues to spread.

The CDC announced it has now officially reached the epidemic level.

The number of states reporting a high amount of "influenza-like" illness activity has increased from 13 to 22 since last week's report from the agency. Pennsylvania, Delaware and now New Jersey have "widespread" activity.

Nationally, we are right at the level where the number of cases has just hit the epidemic threshold.

We don't hit this level every year, but we do most years, and doctors expect this year to be especially bad.

The predominant strain going around tends to cause a lot of illness and it has mutated, or changed. Therefore, the vaccine does not protect against all cases of this strain.

ABC News reports fifteen children have died from complications of the flu so far this season.

Although the current vaccine does not seem to be a good match for this year's strain of the virus, the flu shot is still recommended because it will protect against other strains.

It is also vital to make sure you and your family are washing your hands frequently and staying away from others who are sick.