Health experts are urging Americans to get their flu shots as winter approaches, warning that low vaccination rates could make this season especially dangerous.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the flu has already caused at least 650,000 illnesses, 7,000 hospitalizations and 300 deaths nationwide.

With Christmas gatherings right around the corner, Dr. Toluwalasé Ajayi, chair-elect of the American Medical Association’s board, said it is not too late for people to get vaccinated.

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“The flu typically peaks around January or February, depending on where you are in the country,” Ajayi told Scripps News. "And it takes about two weeks for your body to build up that immunity."

The A

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