7 Healthcast: Flu fight

At least 44 states across the country are now reporting widespread cases of the flu- even among people who were vaccinated.

That's because this year's vaccine only protects against some of the strains out there. That's why experts are in Washington, DC to come up with a better prescription for next year's vaccine.

They unanimously decided on a complete overhaul that will add protection from three strains now circling the globe.

But once again they have to decide months in advance of flu season- hoping they have time to make the hundred million doses needed.

"Don't expect perfection, but go out and get vaccinated so you have the maximum protection," said Dr. William Schnaffer of Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Our country does have a pretty good track record with vaccines. 16 of the last 19 flu seasons had well-matched vaccines.

Still, in the average year, the flu infects up to 20 percent of the population and kills 36,000 people.

Doctors still say the best way to protect yourself from the flu is to wash your hands.

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