PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine public health officials say the flu continues to spread across the state.
According to the latest statistics from the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention released Thursday, there have been 125 flu outbreaks reported so far this season, about four times the normal number.
Although individual flu cases don't have to be reported in Maine, schools and nursing homes are required to report outbreaks.
Agency director Dr. Sheila Pinette tells The Portland Press Herald (http://bit.ly/10DQnKy ) there could be another surge ahead.
The flu has killed 20 children nationwide, including a 6-year-old Maine girl.
Hospitals have been overwhelmed by patients with flu symptoms, in emergency rooms and walk-in clinics. Many patients are being admitted.
Pinette says it's not too late to get vaccinated.
___
Information from: Portland Press Herald, http://www.pressherald.com
