OC Experiences First Under 65 Flu Fatality as Flu Cases Spike

Orange County health officials confirmed the county’s first flu-related death of a person under 65 this year amid a spike of flu cases in the region.

The patient was a 48-year-old woman who had pre-existing health conditions and was infected with the influenza A virus, according to the Orange County Health Agency. “This is a sad and somber reminder of the serious threat posed by influenza,” County Health Officer Dr. Eric Handler said. “It is important for everyone to continue practicing good respiratory and hand hygiene to limit the transmission fo influenza germs from person to person, and to get vaccinated.”

The county has experienced a sharp spike in flu cases over the last week with the number of people going to the doctor’s office with flu symptoms trippling. The Orange County Health Care Agency reports several outbreaks of influenza reported in crowded areas such as long term care facilities and schools. Eight people have been admitted to the intensive care units with the flu. Nationwide, more than two dozen children have died from the flu this season.

According to health officials, eight people under aged 65 have been hospitalized for severe influenza in the county.

The county is offering free flu vaccinations for people 6 months of age and older who do not have a doctor or health insurance coverage. The shots are available on a walk-in basis on Tuesdays from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Public Health Clinic, 1725 W. 17th St., Santa Ana.

• City News Service contributed to this report.