Flu Season

Flu is on the upswing in Illinois along with most of the nation.

Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold says almost 150 people have been admitted to intensive care units with the flu this season and six have died.

Eight Chicago-area hospitals were turning away ambulances Monday night as they dealt with a flood of patients with flu-like symptoms.

Erica Kaufman, MD, from Carbondale's Center for Medical Arts said the flu season hasn't hit southern Illinois nearly as hard, but a flu shot will still protect you and those around you. She says that even if you don't feel symptoms of the flu, you could still be infected and therfore infectious to others.

U.S. health officials say the strain of influenza virus going around this year has been linked to more hospital admissions and deaths.

It isn't too late to get a flu shot, and Kaufman says it's easier than ever to to get one.

"Five years ago, you had to go to your doctor's office, he or she had to have the flu shot available there, and then be able to give it to you. It was really a hassle," Kaufman said Tuesday on the Morning Newswatch with Tom Miller. "Now, you can just walk into most any pharmacy and either pay outright for it (or go through your insurance provider)."

Kaufman said she's seen flu shots cost around $32, while Chicago residents can call 311 for information on free flu shots.