Flu Season Peaks With 41 Deaths: Health Officials

At this time last year, San Diego health officials say 90 flu-related deaths had been reported in the county

With a toll of 41 influenza-related deaths countywide, local health officials says it appears flu season has peaked.

The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) says a total of 15 new flu-related deaths were reported in the region as of March 12, bringing this season’s total to 41.

That figure is significantly less than the 90 flu deaths reported at this same time last year, the HHSA says. The ages of those who have died from the illness this season range from 35 to 95 years old. The HHSA says six of those people had no known underlying medical conditions.

Last week, the HHSA says the number of lab-confirmed flu cases throughout the county tallied 483 – dropping for the second week in a row. During the week prior, 847 cases were reported. To date this season, there have been 4,928 lab-confirmed cases in the county, compared to 6,391 last season.

County public health officer, Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., says the latest numbers indicate that flu season in San Diego may have peaked, although, as she puts it, β€œflu activity in the region is still elevated.”

The HHSA says 6 percent of all emergency department visits last week in San Diego were patients experiencing influenza-like illness.

Wooten says people should still get vaccinated and take other precautions to avoid getting sick, including frequent and thorough hand-washing and staying away from anyone who is ill.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older get a flu shot every year.

The CDC says vaccination is especially important for those at high risk of developing complications from the flu, including people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, people age 65 and older or people who live or care for others who are at higher risk.

The flu vaccine is available at doctor’s offices and pharmacies. Those without health insurance can get the vaccine at a public health center. Call 211 or visit the 211 San Diego website for more information.
 

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