Over 4,100 flu related deaths reported in Texas

HOUSTON (FOX 26/AP) - There have now been over 4,100 flu-related deaths in Texas alone, but the actual number of flu-related deaths may be higher.

The Texas Department of State Health Services say these numbers are based on death certificates and are a couple of weeks old. This means the actual number of deaths is likely much higher.

Good news is doctors are beginning to see a bit of relief after what started out as a brutal flu season. This nasty flu season, which has been worsening for months, may finally be leveling off.

Health officials on Friday said about 1 of every 13 visits to the doctor last week was for fever, cough and other symptoms of the flu. That's no reason for health officials to celebrate yet: That level is among the highest in a decade. But it's no worse than last week, and flu activity had been increasing each week since November.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said the number of states reporting heavy flu patient traffic also held steady at 43.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.