LOS ANGELES, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) -- There have been at least 2.6 million illnesses, 26,000 hospitalizations, and 1,600 deaths from flu so far this season in the United States, according to the latest estimates of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Seasonal influenza activity continued to increase in most parts of the country, with the southeast and south-central areas of the country reporting the highest levels of activity, according to the CDC weekly review.

The number of weekly flu hospital admissions continued to increase.

Four influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported during the week ending Dec. 2, bringing the 2023-2024 season total to 12 pediatric deaths, according to CDC.

CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine.