Wellie, I am sorry for your loss and your friends loss.
As you know our own Special-K has just come through a bad bought with the flu. He is a young fit guy so we know that the flu can take anyone of any age.
Personally, other than SK I have not heard of any of my acquaintances or friends come down with it this year.
This article shows the heaviest hit states so far this year. I do not know if any of the folks you know who have gotten flu are from these area's.
You all on the forum may want to check this out and take precautions if appropriate.
MrsMac and I are heading back to civilization shortly. We will be taking precautions - Thank you.