SEATTLE (AP) — The state Department of Health says the flu is now widespread in Washington, meaning it is in more than half of communities. Previously it had been considered a regional problem.
Spokesman Donn Moyer says flu activity is "ramping up," but it's typically widespread every flu season, peaking in January and February.
Six people have died of the flu so far this season, including one child, and all in Western Washington. There were 18 flu deaths in 2011-2012, and 36 the previous year. The most state deaths were 98 in the swine flu season of 2009-2010
Moyer said Friday there's no shortage of flu vaccine in Washington.
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