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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — School systems across South Carolina say they are happy for the Christmas break for a different reason this year — it provides a good chance to stop a flu outbreak.
Several school districts warned parents of a high number of absences before the break started because of the flu.
The peak of flu season is usually in January or February, but the state Department of Health and Environmental Control said the flu is currently widespread across South Carolina.
Some health officials say the flu is worse this season because doctors chose the wrong strain to put into the flu vaccine.
DHEC also says this year's flu strain is affecting younger people.
Doctors hope the break for Christmas allows the flu's spread to slow down.
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