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Colorado health officials say flu-related hospitalizations are double the average

The best way to prevent the flu is to get the vaccine. There's still time.
BRIGHTON, CO - APRIL 30: A health worker prepares a flu shot for a Mexican farm worker at a mobile clinic on a farm on April 30, 2013 in Brighton, Colorado.

One of the more active flu seasons in recent years is taking its toll in Colorado.

The state has already seen about 2,000 influenza related hospitalizations this season, according to the Colorado Department of Health and Environment

Executive Director and Chief Medical Officer Larry Wolk Environment says that’s about double the amount of an average flu year.

One pediatric death was reported this week for a child that was unvaccinated, CDPHE said in a conference call on Wednesday.

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In addition to an uptick in hospitalizations, Wolk says influenza-like systems in general also seem to be up this year.

Health officials say the best way to combat the flu is to get the vaccine.

Those who come down with a less serious cases are urged to go to primary or urgent care rather than the Emergency Room.

CDPHE believes the flu season is peaking now, and will continue to affect people for a few more weeks.

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