Number of flu-related deaths in Georgia jumps to 12

ATLANTA — The State Department of Public Health is now reporting 12 confirmed flu-related deaths in Georgia so far this flu season.

The previous number was five confirmed deaths.

State health officials say flu activity remains widespread.

Local hospitals said their emergency room have been flooded with suspected cases of the flu.

There were 40 hospitalizations in metro Atlanta last week. There have been more than 300 hospitalizations this season.

Northside Hospital doctor Joe Bateman said his hospitals are prepared to handle the cases.

"We are marshaling all the resources we have, including accessory staff and alternative areas of the hospital, to house the sickest of the sick," he said.

Doctors are urging everyone to take precautions to keep the flu from spreading.

"You need to sequester yourself at home, away from others as much as possible if you have the flu or flu-like symptoms," Bateman said.

Cox Media Group