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Flu Shot in High Demand as Season Goes OnSACRAMENTO –

California health officials have confirmed 243 deaths across the state are flu-related.

Four of those deaths during the 2013-2014 flu season are kids under 18.

Despite the increase in confirmed flu-related deaths, state health officials say the rate of hospitalizations and outpatient visits is decreasing.

“The downward trend in the number of influenza cases is a good sign, but the season is far from over,” Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health, said.

Sacramento County still has one of the higher numbers of flu-related deaths. The county earlier this week reported 26 deaths.

Los Angeles has the most according to the California Department of Public Health, with 33 deaths.