First Flu Death in California: Where to Get a Flu Shot

As the Golden State basks in summer-like temperatures and the leaves on the trees giving just the barest hint of autumn, it seems incredibly early to worry about getting a flu shot. But one flu death has already been reported — a 73-year-old woman in San Diego County.

The death was reported on Tuesday. “This is one of the earliest deaths from seasonal influenza ever reported in the county,” said Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, county deputy public health officer. “The seasonal influenza vaccine is widely available and we urge everyone six months of age and older to get it before flu activity increases.”

The current flu vaccine offers protection against pandemic H1N1, as well as influenza A H3N2 and influenza B strains.

The CDC emphasizes that people who are at higher risk of developing serious complications should be vaccinated, including people with underlying medical conditions, pregnant women, and people 65 years and older.

So, where do you get a flu shot? First, the California Department of Public Health recommends:

• To find flu vaccine near you, visit this online resource. Just type in your zip code and nearby locations are listed.
• Many local health departments and other clinics offer free or low-cost influenza vaccines.
• The California Vaccines for Children program provides no-cost vaccines to eligible children 18 years old and younger.

Need some help with a list of health locations and retailers? Here's a starting point:

• Your personal physician or, in the case of Kaiser, your health plan
• County Health Department
• Albertsons Savon Pharmacies
• CVS Stores
• Longs Drug Stores
• Pavilions Stores with Pharmacies
• Ralphs Stores with Pharmacies
• Rite Aid Stores
• Safeway/Vons Stores with Pharmacies
• Target Stores with Pharmacies
• Walgreens Stores
• Walmart Stores with Pharmacies

Remember to use basic sanitation practices to keep the flu out of your home. Wash your hands often, avoid crowded places like shopping malls or public transportation, and avoid unnecessary visits to hospitals or other settings where people are sick.

—Patch Editor Maggie Avants contributed to this story. Photo by Shutterstock