ARLINGTON – An Arlington man and woman, both in their early 80s, are among four confirmed deaths linked to the flu this winter.

The Snohomish Health District reported that all four had underlying medical conditions, but tested positive for influenza A.

The other deaths were an Everett woman in her early 50s, and a woman in her 80s, residence unknown.

Hospitalizations due to the flu also are skyrocketing, doubling each week since early December.

The worst could be on the horizon, as flu season typically peaks between January and March, the district says.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive flu shots each year. To help limit the spread of flu, the district recommends four simple rules: wash hands, cover coughs, stay home if you’re sick and get vaccinated. Children ages 6 months through 18 years can receive a seasonal flu vaccine at no cost through the Vaccines for Children program. Children younger than 6 months are at higher risk of serious flu complications, but are too young to get a vaccine. Anyone around such infants should get a flu vaccine to help protect them from flu. Also, studies have shown that getting the flu vaccine during pregnancy can protect the baby after birth for several months.

If you are 65 years or older, two new vaccine formulations are available that provide extra protection for those with aging immune systems. For details, go to: www.snohd.org/Diseases-Risks/Flu.