San Diego

20 New Flu-Related Deaths Reported in San Diego County

The predominant strain circulating this season has been influenza H3N2, according to County Public Health Officer Wilma Wooten M.D., M.P.H.

Twenty new flu-related deaths were reported in San Diego County on Wednesday bringing the total to 251 for this flu season, according to the weekly report from the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency.

Thirteen percent of those who died from flu in San Diego County this season were under the age of 65, officials said. The youngest victim was 1-year-old and the oldest was 101.

The number of fatalities this flu season is the highest it's ever been for the county since officials began tracking flu-related deaths approximately 20 years ago.

The predominant strain circulating this season has been influenza H3N2, according to County Public Health Officer Dr. Wilma Wooten.

She and other county health officials advise residents to get vaccinated and take other preventive measures to avoid getting sick. 

The county said this season’s flu vaccine offers protection against influenza A H3N2, pandemic H1N1-like and influenza B strains.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated.

For a list of where you can get the flu vaccine in San Diego, visit this website or call 211.

Influenza-like illnesses made up 5 percent of emergency room visits in San Diego County for the week ending Feb. 10.

Total lab-confirmed cases to date number 16,078, according to the county's weekly report.  

Avoid getting sick by washing your hands thoroughly and often. Also, clean commonly touched surfaces and stay away from sick people. If you are feeling sick, stay home and avoid contact with others. 

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