First Flu Death Of 2015 Reported In Napa County

From Napa County:

The first influenza-associated death for the 2014-2015 flu season has been reported to Napa County Public Health.

The decedent was an adult under age 65, who died from complications due to influenza in early January of this year.

By state law, influenza deaths are only reportable to the local Public Health authority when they occur in individuals under age 65; this means that reports will underestimate flu deaths actually occurring in a community.

[Previous: Flu Season Hitting Napa, Bay Area.]

Certain groups are more vulnerable to complications, including death, from influenza.

“If an infant, pregnant woman, older person or anyone with chronic medical conditions develops symptoms that could be the flu, they should be evaluated quickly so that they can be considered for antiviral medication,” said Dr. Karen Smith, Napa County Public Health Officer.

“Preventive measures such as ensuring everyone in the household gets a flu vaccine, washing your hands, and staying home when you are ill will help to reduce the spread of flu.” she added.

Flu activity has increased sharply within the last few weeks in Napa County, similar to trends observed statewide. An outbreak of influenza has also been reported in a long term care facility. The peak of the season may occur in late January or early February.

The predominant influenza virus types identified this year are types A H3N2, and lower levels of influenza A H1N1 and influenza B. The current vaccine remains protective against a number of the strains circulating in Napa County.

Napa County Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to strongly encourage influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months of age and older.

Getting vaccinated for influenza protects not only the person who receives the vaccine but also reduces the chance that they will spread flu to family members and friends.

This is particularly important for those who are at increased risk of severe influenza, or are in close contact with people who are at a higher risk, which includes infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons who have chronic illnesses, obesity, or conditions that reduce the ability to fight infections.

Where is flu vaccine available?

1. From doctors or healthcare providers

2. Pharmacies: visit www.healthmap.org/flushot to find flu vaccine locations

3. Residents without access to flu vaccine can call (707) 253-4270 for a free appointment at the Napa County Health & Human Services Agency, Public Health Division, Building G at 2344 Old Sonoma Road in Napa.

· Appointments available Mondays and Wednesdays

· Drop in (no appointment needed):

− Tuesdays: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

− Thursdays: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Practice Good Hygiene & Healthy Habits: W.H.A.C.K. the Flu

· Wash hands often

· Home is where you stay when sick

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

· Cover coughs and sneezes

· Keep distance from people coughing and sneezing

For More Information

· Visit www.countyofnapa.org/publichealth/seasonalflu/

· Like “Napa County Flu Fighters” on Facebook www.facebook.com/napacountyflufighters

· Join the National Influenza Campaign by using hashtag #VaxWithMe and #flu on social media

The Board of Supervisors and staff of Napa County are dedicated to preserving and sustaining Napa County for present and future generations as a community with generous open space, a thriving agricultural industry and a quality human and natural environment. Visit us on the Web at www.countyofnapa.org.

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