ATLANTA, Ga. – The US is currently on track for its earliest flu season start in more than 15 years with at least 1,300 flu deaths so far this season. Health officials say that the deep south as been hit the hardest, according to 11Alive.

During this current flu season, there have already been 204 people hospitalized and 2 confirmed deaths. The latest death being a patient believed to be between the ages of 18 and 49-years-old; the first death was a person older than 65-years-old.

Fayette County’s Crabapple Lane Elementary School urged parents to keep their children home if they have been experiencing flu-like symptoms after 38 students were found to have confirmed cases of the flu.

Signs and symptoms of the flu to watch for:

• Fever (100 degrees F or greater), however, not everyone will have a fever.
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Fatigue (very tired)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults

How to prevent the spread of the flu:

• Frequent and thorough hand-washing with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based gels are the next best thing if you don’t have access to soap and water.
• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or arm to help prevent the spread of the flu. 
• Avoid touching your face as flu germs can get into the body through mucus membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes. 
• If you are sick, stay home from school or work. Flu sufferers should be free of a fever, without the use of a fever reducer, for at least 24 hours before returning to school or work.
• If you are caring for a sick individual at home, keep them away from common areas of the house and other people as much as possible.