SAN DIEGO–Another flu death was reported in San Diego County last week, bringing this season’s total to seven, the County Health and Human Services Agency said.
The seventh death was that of a 73-year-old man who died Dec. 16 from influenza A. His vaccination status is pending and whether he had underlying medical conditions is being investigated. The other six people who have died this season had underlying medical conditions and their vaccination status was unknown. Eleven flu deaths had been reported at the same time last season, when 342 influenza fatalities occurred.
“Influenza can be deadly, especially for the elderly and people with chronic medical conditions,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “Getting a flu shot is the best way to prevent getting sick.”
There was also an uptick in lab-confirmed influenza cases last week when 410 cases were reported. The figure is elevated, but significantly lower than the 2,332 cases that were reported during the same week last season.
“While we’re seeing fewer flu cases this season, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated since the flu season could last through April and even May,” Wooten said.
The County Health and Human Services Agency publishes the weekly Influenza Watch report, which tracks key flu indicators and summarizes influenza surveillance in the region. All other indicators are at expected levels for this time of year.
