Fewer hospitalized for flu in Maryland

WASHINGTON - Swine flu is still the main strain that's making people sick in Maryland, but fewer people with flu-like symptoms are being hospitalized in the state.

During the week of October 24th, about 260 people were hospitalized with the flu in Maryland. But that number has dropped for three straight weeks, to just 53 people last week.

"We've already received well over 750,000 doses, and while we still have a ways to go," says Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley, "we are getting that vaccine out to our local health departments and doctors and providers and pediatricians as soon as we get it in."

The Governor says the swine flu vaccine should become available to more state residents very soon.

"It's our expectation that by the end of the year we will have enough vaccine for H1N1 on hand for anyone who wants it," the Governor says.

Flu activity remains widespread in Maryland.

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