A concerning report has been released from the CDC as we approach peak flu activity in western Massachusetts. The latest data shows that fewer children are getting vaccinated and, alarmingly, more are dying from flu-related symptoms.

Although vaccinations among adults have remained steady, the CDC says fewer children are getting vaccinated against influenza this year.

Louisiana has reported what appears to be the state's first case of bird flu. In a health alert issued Friday, state officials said the case involves “a resident of southwestern Louisiana. The individual had exposure to sick and dead birds that are suspected to have been infected with H5N1,