More Young People Dealing with the Flu

Across the country, the flu has been particularly trying for many young and middle-aged adults.

"Flu hospitalizations and deaths in people younger- and middle-aged adults is a sad and difficult reminder that flu can be serious for anyone, not just the very young and old; and that everyone should be vaccinated," said Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the CDC, via a press release. "The good news is that this season's vaccine is doing its job, protecting people across all age groups."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that 61 percent of all flu hospitalizations have been among adults ages 18 to 64. This is an unusually high percentage for this age group, according to the findings. Deaths in this same age group are also up, with approximately 60 percent of flu deaths among those 25 to 64. That's a 42 percent increase from last season, according to the report.

"Younger people may feel that influenza is not a threat to them, but this season underscores that flu can be a serious disease for anyone," Frieden said, via Live Science. "It's important that everyone get vaccinated."

Those most at risk for the flu are individuals suffering from certain health issues, including diabetes, asthma or heart disease, as well as pregnant women, people over 65 and children younger than five.

Researchers note that those affected by the virus every year may potentially depend on the strain that's going around.

For people that may become ill with the flu, health officials note that many antiviral treatments are available. However, they should be started as soon as possible-ideally within a 48-hour time frame after contraction of the virus.