Washington flu season most deadly in years, but not over

SEATTLE (AP) — The deadliest flu season in Washington state in at least five years is winding down, but it's not yet over.

State health officials say state labs have confirmed at least 120 flu deaths since the season started in September, but only a fraction of those who die from the flu are tested for the virus.

Flu death numbers are underreported because influenza may not be listed as a cause of death, testing may not have been performed and some test results were reported to public health.

Last year's full season left 79 people dead, according to lab reports.

The state did not track flu deaths in the same way before 2010 but 60 would be a more typical number of confirmed flu deaths in Washington.