Deadly flu season may have peaked

WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- There were indications Friday the nation's flu epidemic, which has killed at least 93 children so far this winter, may have peaked.

Federal health officials say while they are still concerned sickness and death could continue to mount, they are encouraged the number of states reporting widespread flu dropped to 38, down from 42 a week earlier, the Washington Post reported.

"We are cautiously optimistic that, in at least some parts of the country, influenza may have peaked," said Julie L. Gerberding, director of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But she cautioned "there's still plenty of flu out there," with the chance of a second wave later in the season.

Flu cases were dropping off in some places, including Colorado, which reported numerous cases statewide early in the season but is now reporting only regional outbreaks.