SAN DIEGO–County Health and Human Services Agency reported its first pediatric flu death this season. A 17-year-old girl died Feb. 25 from influenza A/H3 and had an underlying medical condition.
A total to 72 people died from the flu, compared to 68 last year, including a 9-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl.
“Influenza deaths are very unfortunate, but a teen dying from the flu is especially tragic,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “Many people may have spring vacations coming up, and you should get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before your trip.”
All the individuals, except three, had underlying medical conditions and most were over the age of 65.