Pasadena Health Officials Urge Flu Vaccination As Cases Rise

PASADENA, CA — The Pasadena Public Health Department is urging everyone 6 months and older to get this season’s flu vaccine as flu activity increases across Los Angeles County and California.

California recorded 22,869 positive influenza tests as of Oct. 24, a 211.2% increase from the 7,348 positive tests reported in September, according to the department. Los Angeles County, including Pasadena, is experiencing an earlier rise in flu activity and a faster increase than last year.

No flu deaths have been reported to the Pasadena Public Health Department this season, and officials did not report the number of flu cases in the city.

The department will offer free flu vaccines to people 6 months and older at its final two community clinics this fall.

Both clinics will run from 1:30 to 4 p.m. The Nov. 5 clinic will be at Allendale Branch Library, 1130 S. Marengo Ave., and the Nov. 19 clinic will be at Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 S. Hill Ave.

“This year’s flu season is starting early. Getting a flu shot can help you avoid serious illness and hospital visits,” Dr. Parveen Kaur, Pasadena’s health officer, said in a statement. “If you feel like you have the flu, contact your health care provider to see if antiviral medication may be right for you.”

Vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness, particularly among older adults and people with underlying medical conditions, the department said.

Health officials advised people with flu-like symptoms to get tested promptly. Those at high risk of serious illness should contact their health care provider immediately about antiviral treatment without waiting for test results.

The department also advises sick people to stay home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.

Prescription antiviral medications can lessen flu symptoms and shorten the illness. They work best when started within one to two days after symptoms begin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC recommends prompt treatment for people with confirmed or suspected flu who face an increased risk of complications, including pregnant women and people with asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes or heart disease.

Vaccines are also available through health care providers and pharmacies. Appointments can be made at MyTurn.ca.gov.

Statewide tracking of flu infections is available on the California Department of Public Health’s respiratory virus dashboard.