Flu season has hit Virginia. A widespread influenza epidemic currently covers about half of the state, Dr. Ted Tweel, acting director of the Three Rivers Health District said on Monday.

Antiviral medications can lessen symptoms of the flu, he said, as can getting a vaccination.

Although some patients have to be admitted to the hospital, most are being treated on an outpatient basis, said Susan Haden, infection prevention manager at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester.

Lisa Laurier, health education manager for Three Rivers Health District, said that the flu vaccine being offered this year does not contain the strain of flu that is currently making the rounds. But receiving the flu shot still will provide some immunity from the flu, she said, or at least shorten the recovery period from the illness.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a report stating manufacturers of flu vaccine believe there is adequate supply for now, but there could be some temporary s...