Flu Death Toll Climbs To 11 In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA – Two more flu deaths were confirmed in San Diego County last week, bringing this flu season's death toll to 11, county health officials announced Wednesday.

A 74-year-old man who was vaccinated died from complications from influenza B on Dec. 31, according to the county Health and Human Services Agency. A 64-year-old man died who was not vaccinated died from complications from influenza A on Jan. 3.

Lab-confirmed flu cases in the county totaled 2,083 through Jan. 5, according to the county's weekly influenza report. That total represents roughly one-fifth of the 10,335 confirmed cases at this time last flu season. The death toll is lower, too, down from 91 at this point last season.

"It's not too late in the season to get your flu shot," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "Flu activity can last until April or May and the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others around you from influenza."

Health officials recommend that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year. The vaccine is especially recommended for people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and lung disease, pregnant women, people 65 years and older, and people who live with or care for others who are at higher risk.

The flu vaccine is available at doctors' offices, retail pharmacies, community clinics and the county's public health center. Call 211 or visit sdiz.org for a list of locations.

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