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Afraid of sharks? Flu, asteroids pose far greater risk

Posted at 8:51 AM, Jun 26, 2017
and last updated 2017-06-26 08:53:06-04

BOSTON (AP) - Great white sharks are making their annual return to the Northeast's popular vacation spots. But experts say not to worry - the odds are definitely on your side.

The National Aquarium in Baltimore says the chances of being killed by a shark are one in 3.7 million.

Statistically, you're much more in danger of succumbing to the flu - a one in 63 chance. Your chances of dying in a car accident are one in 90. You're even more likely to be killed by an asteroid or by a lightning strike.

Great white sharks have been spotted recently off Cape Cod; Long Island, New York; and the Jersey shore - all popular summer destinations.

Although biologists play down the risks, they do warn against swimming or surfing near seals.

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