The flu virus is becoming increasingly prevalent as public places become hotbeds for the growth of the virus. Schools and places of work are unsafe from the flu epidemic.

School closings, due to illness, are causing great concern. Student and faculty absences are becoming too widespread for schools to remain open.

 Carrie Sheffield, UT english professor, recently became a victim of the flu outbreak. Sheffield's viral symptoms lasted for two weeks, leaving her out of work for several days.

"I felt lazy (and) guilty toward my students," Sheffield said regarding her absence in the classroom.

Sheffield did not receive the flu vaccination in fear that someone more susceptible to the virus would be denied. She was unaware of the amount of vaccinations allotted to the public and did not want to take the chance.

Businesses have been hit by the flu as well. Employees are taking advantage of any time off in order to regain their strength. Pneumonia and bronchitis have also been noted as other illnesses spreading in the workplace.

Hospitals are now taking these problems seriously in order to prevent this epidemic from spreading further. Seeing as the risks of infection are too great, healthy visitors are asked to postpone seeing their friends and family in the hospital.

Questions arised about the effectiveness of this season's flu vaccination. If one has yet to receive the shot, it is not too late. Those who have not had any treatment are still encouraged to take action.