An early outbreak threatens to makes this year's influenza season one of the most difficult in recent years as public health officials brace for the worst. Hospitals in the Northeast, from New Jersey to Massachusetts, are reporting record numbers of emergency room visits related to flu-like illnesses, and Boston has declared a public health emergency. At least 41 states have reported widespread flu outbreaks, more than 2,250 people have been hospitalized and 18 children have died, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. Updated national statistics are scheduled to be released Friday.
