Avoiding the flu may be more than just washing your hands.

The flu is back and with a vengeance. It's now considered one of the worst flu seasons in recent years. Hitting the U.S. unusually early and hard this year, the flu has officially arrived and it won't be departing anytime soon. Many local hospitals are closing their doors to flu and respiratory patients, and sending them on to other facilities.

Sometimes, I feel that we underestimate the crippling powers of the flu.

We really need to have a healthy appreciation for it, and take every precaution to avoid it. New research tells us it's never too soon to be prepared, and certainly not too late to get vaccinated against one of the most insidious and aggressive strains of flu in recent memory.

Do your children need a flu vaccine? This year, maybe more than ever...

Listen to this very important advice for reducing your family's chances of catching colds and flu this season.