The flu epidemic nationwide is destructive, and it's effects can be felt all throughout the desert southwest, especially in Yuma.

According to Yuma County Public Health Nurse Supervisior Leigh Ann Howell, the numbers aren't really dropping or rising, they're average. She states "We are seeing normal flu numbers reported at this time." She continued "It is about a month to two weeks earlier than the usual peak in the season, but the numbers are generally the same as they have been in the last few seasons."

In california, things are a little different because the state isn't on high alert, but the effects have landed.

Lab confirmed cases have already started pouring in throughout imperial county.