A new variant of the flu virus has been affecting people all over the world, and serving as a reminder to get your flu shot.

According to an Associated Press report, that variant is known as “subclade K” and led to early outbreaks in the United Kingdom, Japan and Canada. In the United State, while flu season typically begins in December, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported high or very high levels of illness in more than half the states.

The CDC estimated there have been at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths from flu so far this season, including at least eight child deaths. That’s all based on data from Dec. 20, well before people started making their holiday visits.

As shown in those CDC statistics, the flu is no joke, especially for those with compromised immune systems. The flu vaccine isn’t a perfect shield from “subclade K,” but it has shown to provide at least some protection.

There’s still time left to get a flu shot to stay safe this season. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to head to the drug store or your doctor and procure one.