SAN DIEGO–Influenza deaths in San Diego county increased last week and the number of emergency department visits due to flu-like illness remained the same, County Health and Human Services Agency reports.
Six flu-related deaths were reported last week, bringing this season’s total to 308. San Diegans who died from flu this season range in age from 1 to 101, and almost all had underlying medical conditions. Forty of the deaths were of people under 65-years-old, which are the only cases public health agencies are required to report in California. The County informs the public about all flu deaths.
A total of 682 lab-confirmed flu cases were reported last week, 64 more than the previous week when 620 cases were reported. Emergency department visits of patients with flu-like symptoms remained the same at 4 percent. The peak of 13 percent was reported in late December.
“The number of influenza cases being reported is still elevated, a sign that the flu is still here and making people sick,” said Wilma Wooten M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “People should continue getting vaccinated.”
Due to continued elevated flu activity in the county, Wooten is extending—until April 30—the order for unvaccinated health care personnel to wear a mask while they’re in patient care areas. If influenza activity remains elevated, a further extension may be required.
On March 17, the County Health and Human Services Agency Influenza Watch reports emergency department visits for influenza-like illness this week were 4 percent of all visits compared to 4 percent the previous week. There were 684 flu cases compared to 620 the previous week. About 308 people died from the flu compared to 72 at this time last season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated. The vaccine is safe and effective. It takes two weeks for immunity to develop.
