Flu-related deaths are on the rise. Thirty children have died so far. 

Health officials say influenza activity has increased and is now widespread in 49 states, except Hawaii, according to the CDC. 

The number of children dead is double what it was this time last year and state and local officials are urging people to get their flu shot. 

Asside from getting the flu shot, health experts recommend some other common sense things to do to prevent the flu--like hand washing and disinfecting surfaces in your home and at work. 

They also say if you have any symptoms, the best thing to do is to just stay home. 

And even if you're not sick, experts say you should get the flu shot, because you probably know someone who is sick. 

"I'm really concerned about how many people are opting not to vaccinate. Being vaccinated is going to assure to have at least a shorter duration of illness and probably milder flu," said a doctor. 

The CDC says the flu kills about 12,000 people annually. Doctors and pharmacies all over the Bay area are still offering flu shots. 

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