The flu is at it again, shutting down entire facilities in South Dakota. It seems Pierre is getting hit hard right now. The "Maryhouse" and St. Mary's OB unit in Pierre will be closed to visitors until Monday. Administrators say under normal circumstances they welcome visitors, but because of an increased number of flu cases, they need to protect their patients from any exposure.

To give you an idea of how things are looking right now, we'll take a look at last year's flu numbers. In the 2006-2007 season, 400 cases of influenza were reported the South Dakota Department of Health. We also know that last year's flu season peaked during the second full week of February.

As of this week, 365 cases of the flu have been reported to the South Dakota Department of Health. Flu activity is still described as widespread throughout the State. For months, health experts have been emphasizing the importance of getting a flu shot, and they say if you don't have one yet...you could still benefit from getting one. Different flu viruses can circulate as late as May.

The state health department says 96% of the flu cases reported in South Dakota match the strain in this year's flu vaccine. You can bet some of those suffering are probably wishing they had gotten that flu shot right about now.