Reports of flu continue in a predictably intense season

"There's still a chance you'll get a different type of flu, or the same flu, but your symptoms will be milder," she said.

The CDC has reported a 91 percent match for this year's current strain and the available vaccination.

Throughout the 2011-12 season, 362 individuals were hospitalized with influenza in Utah, although that season was relatively minor, according to health officials. On average, the state sees about 600 cases each year, Vernon said.

Nationally, influenza has taken hold earlier than usual, with all but nine states reporting at least moderate activity, according to the CDC. Agency officials expect a moderate to severe flu season.

A Google.org report issued Wednesday predicts a continued upswing in cases throughout the country. The organization has closely called every flu season since 2006, based on the number of influenza-related online Google searches by individuals across the country.

The organization believes Midvale is a safe place to be this season, as few searches have originated there. Utah, it claims, is one of nine states where influenza search activity is highest.

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