PORT ORCHARD — Confirming that this flu season is one of the worst in recent memory, the Washington State Department of Health reported that eight people have died from flu symptoms in Kitsap County, and 109 across the state.

Influenza is hitting hard this winter, and the flu season has only just reached its peak period, said Dr. Eric Wall, market medical director — Pacific Northwest of UnitedHealthcare.

Wall said flu season may continue through May. He recommended that people who have not gotten a flu shot to do so immediately. While it won’t necessarily prevent you from getting sick, it likely will lessen its severity if you get it, he said.

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it’s not too late,” Wall said. “Primary care doctors, wellness and convenience clinics, and most retail pharmacies can administer a flu shot. Your medical insurance likely will cover the cost.”

The following flu-like symptoms are an indication you could be a victim: Fever, feverish chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and tiredness. These systems start suddenly, not gradually. A combination of these means you likely need to be seen by your primary care physician.

If you are pregnant, diabetic, immunocompromised or experience shortness of breath, such as chronic asthma or health failure, you should seek immediate medical care.

Wall said it’s imperative that you guard against infecting others. “If you are sick with the flu, stay home to prevent spreading flu to others,” he said.

“Most healthy adults can infect others one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick, which means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.”