COEUR d'ALENE - Flu season is in full swing and local health care providers have seen several severe cases of the illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report 15 children have died from flu-related illnesses across the country. Idaho and 21 other states have also reported a high number of flu-like cases to the federal agency.

According to Melanie Collett, of Panhandle Health District, this year's dominant flu strain, H3N2, has historically affected the elderly and young children.

Collett said the Panhandle Health District urges residents to "Take 3" in order to protect themselves and their families. The "Take 3" strategy begins with taking the time to get a flu shot.

"Evidence suggests that a flu shot may lessen the severity and prevent influenza-related complications that require hospitalization or cause death," Collett said. "Such protection is possible because antibodies created through vaccination with one strain of influenza virus will often 'cross-protect' against different but related strains of influenza viruses or at least reduce the severity of symptoms."

Resisting the temptation to ignore flu symptoms and go to work is the second step in the Panhandle Health District strategy for reducing the impact of the flu.

"Take a sick day," Collett said. "The flu virus easily spreads from person to person, so assess yourself critically, especially if you work in the health care field. If you must go to work, wear a face mask and avoid direct contact with the public."

Finally, the Panhandle Health District recommends taking antiviral drugs if they are recommended by a doctor. These drugs differ from antibiotics, Collett said, and can significantly shorten the duration of the illness and make the symptoms milder.

"For most of us, the flu is an ordinary nuisance of winter - but we often forget that this illness kills people," Collett said. "By getting vaccinated, preventing the spread and treating our symptoms, we are in essence, protecting ourselves and those in our community that are vulnerable."