Burt Reynolds Hospitalized: Actor Taken to the Intensive Care Unit for Further Examination

Use Burt Reynolds as an example of why one needs to stay hydrated when coming down with the flu.

The epidemic that has been traveling the country infecting numerous innocent bystanders in its way has left the 76-year-old actor in the Intensive Care Wing of a Florida hospital.

His representative told TMZ that "Burt, like everyone else in the country, caught that nasty flu bug that's been going around ... and was coping with the symptoms for several days. But, the symptoms got worse, and Burt was admitted to the hospital."

The rep goes on to explain that Reynolds was moved to the ICU earlier today after doctors determined he was "severely dehydrated."

Don't worry though, everyone will still have the chance to hear his voice on the animated FX series, "Archer" because it isn't as serious as it appears to be, Reynolds (and his mustache) will be able to make a fully recovery.

But, this event proves that the flu shouldn't be underestimated.

If not taken seriously, or not treated, it could lead to serve consequences.

Already, 47 out of 50 states have reported widespread influenza activity-being famous doesn't protect against being affected.

To make things worse, another stomach virus, called GII.4 Sydney, is making its way around the country and according to The Centers for Disease Control, on their website, states that "in 2012, a new strain of norovirus was detected in Australia. It is called GII.4 Sydney. People in the United States and other countries also have been infected with the new strain. It is currently the leading cause of norovirus outbreaks in the United States."

For a bit of background on this new virus, Ian Goodfellow, a researcher at England's University of Cambridge, said, according to inquisitor.com, "the norovirus is easily transmittable and can work its way through large populations very quickly."

Goodfellow added, "It can sweep through an environment very, very quickly. You can be feeling quite fine one minute and within several hours suffer continuous vomiting and diarrhea."

Heed these warning and be careful while out and about.