4 flu-related deaths in Minnesota last week, spread drops to sporadic

Four people died from flu-related illnesses in Minnesota last week, according to the Minnesota Department of Health’s (MDH) latest flu activity report. The total number of flu-related deaths in the state now stands at 145, including three pediatric deaths, this season.

For the third consecutive week, MDH has downgraded the spread of influenza in the state, which is now listed as "sporadic." Flu activity across the country continues to be downgraded with more than half the states now reporting less than widespread activity.

The number of flu-related hospitalizations continues to drop, with just seven reported in the past week, down from 28 the week prior. At least 4,033 people have been hospitalized in the state due to flu-related illnesses this flu season.