Pennsylvania has joined 22 other states in a far from desirable designation — its flu levels are now considered a widespread outbreak.

This flu season is being called one of the worst in memory. From early October through late December, the state Department of Health confirmed more than 17,300 influenza cases in 66 of the state’s 67 counties.

On Monday, the department cited nine deaths caused by the flu this season. Just three days later, an additional four deaths were reported.

And the worst news is state health officials don’t even expect the season to peak until later this month.

In a perfect world, all Pennsylvanians eligible to get vaccinated would do so. It’s understandable some people can’t get a flu shot — for example, pregnant women or children with extreme allergic reactions to vaccines.

But parents of children having second thoughts about getting their child vaccinated should educate themselves.

Bills from state lawmakers have proposed requiring families seeking non-medical exemptions to meet with a doctor annually to discuss risks involved in not getting their child vaccinated and requiring schools to publish the number of vaccinated and unvaccinated students online — although students wouldn’t be listed by name.

These are both good ideas, but ultimately parents have the final say. They should take the words of Butler Memorial Hospital’s Dr. David Rottinghaus seriously: “As more people get the flu, the more it gets passed around to other people.”

Studies have shown children are more susceptible to germs due to the close-quartered nature of schools, preschools and day-care centers. Children are less likely to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and washing their hands doesn’t come as naturally as it does for adults.

For these reasons and others, children are among the most at risk during flu season.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a record number of child deaths — 19 nationally as of late December — caused by the flu this season.

Rottinghaus said this season has seen increased numbers in Butler County, which reported at least 207 cases, though he believes that number is higher.

And yet, the CDC notes only 45.3 percent of adults and 62.6 percent of children were vaccinated last flu season. Those numbers seem dangerously low.

We understand the decision whether to get a flu shot is a personal one — and people have to make their own choice.

But children can’t make their own decisions, and a parent’s choice to not get their child vaccinated is putting their child — and those of others — at risk.

Those leaning toward not getting the flu shot should first educate themselves on the risks involved, so they can make an informed decision.