The death of an RPI graduate student earlier this week was caused by the flu, according to Rensselaer County.

Yeming Shen, 24, was found in the City Station student housing off Congress and Ferry Streets Monday night. Shen was working toward a Ph.D. in Troy. 

Officials in Rensselaer County again say there is no risk to the public.

This has been a serious year for flu cases. The CDC estimates there have been between 12,000 and 30,000 deaths nationwide. According to the New York state flu tracker, compared to this time last year there are around 10,000 more flu cases this season.

Health officials are reminding people to be cautious: Frequently wash your hands, disinfect places that are touched a lot, and it's still not too late to get that flu shot.