Tennessee is among the states reporting widespread flu cases here in early January. The latest numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show 43 states, including Tennessee, with widespread cases reported. They also report we are in the peak of the flu season and activity is expected to begin to fall off later in the month.

In nearby Davidson County, there have been five reported deaths from the flu and seven others in surrounding counties. About 450 people here in the mid-state have reportedly been hospitalized with confirmed cases of the flu.

Locally, at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, the emergency room has been busy with flu and respiratory illnesses. The best way to avoid getting the flu or other bugs out there is to wash your hands on a regular basis and stay away from those that are showing signs of illness. The C-D-C says it's also not to late to get your flu shot. While flu season is expected to peak soon, it will still be around for several more months.