The flu epidemic across the country is showing no signs of slowing down.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a flu epidemic is currently sweeping the country. A map on the CDC's website shows widespread activity in all of the continental U.S.

Health officials in Orange County say they're seeing a very high number of flu screenings this year compared to last season. Officials in Westchester say their numbers are about the same.

Emergency doctors at St. John's Riverside Hospital in Yonkers say the severity of the flu this season may have to do with the particular strain of vaccine being circulated.

"The flu vaccine isn't as effective as we would like it to be. That shouldn't discourage people from getting flu vaccine because it can help buffer the severity of the flu," says Dr. Anthony Oraha, of St. John's Riverside Hospital.

Doctors say it is not too late to get a flu shot, and they highly recommend most people get one considering the severity of the flu this season.

They say practicing good health habits, such as washing hands, is a good way to prevent catching the flu.