Flu Widespread In Kansas

Topeka, Ks – Outbreaks of seasonal and swine flu continue to be widespread across Kansas, even as the first shipments of vaccine arrive in the state.

The Department of Health and Environment reports that there were 30 deaths from pneumonia or influenza out of 456 deaths in the state for the week ending Oct. 10, or about 6.6 percent. That's slightly higher than the national average of 6.5 percent for the preceding week.

Overall, 75 of the 105 Kansas counties had confirmed cases of swine flu.

Officials at Fort Riley say they are expecting vaccine in the next two weeks to begin protecting its soldiers and families from the virus. Fort Riley is sandwiched between Riley and Geary counties, an area that had one of the highest initial outbreaks of flu when it emerged earlier this year.