The brunt of a predicted severe flu season appears to be taking its toll on Georgians,  and pharmacies are struggling to meet the demand for vaccinations.

Officials with the Georgia Department of Public Health released a statement Friday confirming that the state is in the midst of a flu epidemic, the likes of which hasn’t been felt in nearly a decade.

The department said flu activity is widespread throughout the state, and the number of flu-related hospitalizations is high.

So far, two adult, flu-related deaths have been reported in Georgia.

Meanwhile, pharmacies  are seeing numerous people come in to get a flu shot, which officials said it is not too late to get.

Redmond Regional Medical Center has seen an influx of patients with flu-like symptoms in recent weeks and both Floyd Medical Center and Harbin Clinic have reported a similar situation at their facilities.

Officials stressed the importance of taking preventive measures now to minimize the effects of the flu and stay healthy. Every healthy individual older than 6 months should get a flu vaccine.

The predominant strain of flu circulating in Georgia and around the country is H3N2. This year’s vaccine is a close match making it effective in preventing the flu or minimizing its symptoms and duration. 

Other things to do to keep from getting the flu include frequent and thorough hand washing with warm water and soap, avoiding touching your face, and covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.