Every flu and cold season, hundreds of people die from the flu. The flu, that many people think is only a minor sickness, affects many, but as we live through yet another season of it, researchers say that it is getting even worse.

According to The Atlantic, there are numerous reasons this flu season is one to be cautionary about. First, scientists researched the virus itself. Their studies found that in the southern hemisphere, the flu virus has been affecting humans exponentially worse. The flu shot, which many think prevents the flu altogether, is also only 10 percent effective.

The statistics of this year’s virus are worrisome; flu-related deaths were 6.7 percent of all total deaths last week, almost considered an epidemic. Over 20 children and 25 adults have already been killed by the flu this year. Kyler Baughman, a 21-year-old healthy bodybuilder, is among the many victims.

For Baughman, it started only with a runny nose and a cough; symptoms that might be considered minor even by a doctor. But his condition rapidly worsened and he found himself rushed to the hospital. His death was diagnosed as “septic shock caused by influenza.”

“Flu is everywhere in the U.S. right now,” said Dan Jernigan, director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s influenza branch, according to The Atlantic.

LHS school nurse Laura Parish also noted the high rates of the flu this year.

“In South Dakota, there are many diagnoses of the flu,”  said Parish. “There are many different strains of the flu, but the type A Influenza is the most common right now. There is also Influenza B going around, which is often times the more deadly strain.”

Parish also stressed the importance of the vaccine, despite its low 10 percent effectiveness.

“Yes, get the vaccine,” said Parish. “Getting the vaccine decreases the symptoms. With the vaccine, you just have an overall better survival chance. Make sure to get the flu shot every year because each one fights different strains.”

To avoid catching the flu this year, the Center for Disease and Control gave a list of helpful steps.

1. Avoid close contact
2. Stay at home when you are sick
3. Clean your hands often
4. Get plenty of sleep
5. Stay active
6. Try to live an overall healthy lifestyle