(CNN'S SANDRA ENDO) The seasonal flu is hitting the U.S. hard, and many states are seeing widespread activity. The Centers for Disease Control says some southern states, where the flu hit earliest, are reporting fewer flu cases than a week ago. Still, 24 states and New York City are still indicating high influenza activity.

"The only thing that's predictable about the flu is that it's unpredictable," says the CDC's Tom Frieden. "Only time will tell us how long our season will last, and how moderate or severe this season will be in the end."

Friday, the CDC reported 20 people under the age of 18 have died since the outbreak started at the end of December. The Center does not track flu related deaths in adults, but states across the country are reporting double digit fatalities, like 27 deaths in Minnesota, 15 in Indiana, and 22 deaths in South Carolina.

"Generally, perfectly healthy people do not die from influenza, but it does occur," says Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci. "It's generally the elderly, very young children, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, debilitating diseases and people on certain immunosuppressive drugs."

Health officials say the strain is in the H3N2 virus which is often associated with more serious diseases.

"They may get more complications from this particular H3N2 strain, which may make them ill for a longer period of time," says the CDC's Michael Jhung.

Doctors say it's not too late to get a flu shot to try to prevent getting sick. The seasonal flu outlook changes daily. You can get the latest 24/7 by going to our website, Fox17.com, and look under HOT TOPICS.
Strong, Early Flu Season Proves Deadly Across the Country