According to Los Angeles County health officials, this season’s flu could be the worst since H1N1 (swine) in 2009 that they have seen yet. The number of deaths and hospital visits are on the rise, partially due to the fact that this season started a month earlier than usual.  

As of Monday, January 15, 42 deaths between the ages of 18 and 65 have been reported. Unfortunately, we do not know the accurately reported flu deaths for people over 65 because it is not mandated to report data after the age 65. Last year there were only 13 flu-related, reported deaths. Officials cannot explain exactly why there is such a spike this year, but it could be potentially related to fewer people getting vaccinations, a drop in weather conditions, and a stronger resistance to vaccinations.