Flu season not winding down quickly

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana flu-related deaths have jumped to 61. That's three more than last week.

It's nearing the end of flu season, but some doctors say it doesn't feel that way.

“We’re still seeing a few a day. Maybe three or four a day, every day, at this point,” said Tammy Johnson, API Clinic office manager.

“Over the last five weeks, the flu patients have been decreasing over the period of time, but it’s still higher than normal,” said Dr. Harishchandra Rathod, CEO and physician at API Clinic.

Flu-related deaths continue to rise in Indiana.
    
But most of the deaths include elderly patients or patients that already have health concerns.

“Deaths are caused when someone has a preexisting condition. Most of these patients have a very bad COPD or compromised lung functions,” said Dr. Rathod.

Indiana's health commissioner says the influenza vaccine isn't perfect. But he says it's still the best method for preventing the flu.
    
And Dr. Rathod agrees.

“It’s the best way to avoid getting a type of flu which is basically an influenza, the infection caused by influenza virus,” said Dr. Rathod.

But the end of the flu is in sight.

“Over the last five weeks, the frequency and number of patients is dropping in all states, even t hough it’s still higher than normal, we think it’s decreasing. That’s a good sign,” said Dr. Rathod.
    
Officials say if you are having flu-like symptoms, it's still best to see a doctor.