​Flu Death Toll Reaches 86 In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — As the San Diego region prepares for possible cases of the new coronavirus, county health officials reported Wednesday that even with six additional flu-related deaths recorded last week, the flu season appears to be winding down.

A total of 86 San Diego County residents have died from the flu so far this season, which is more than in all of last season. There were 46 flu-related deaths at this time last year and 77 deaths in total last flu season.

However, of the half dozen deaths recorded last week, only one actually happened last week, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency. All of the people who died had underlying medical conditions.

The county recorded 637 cases last week, which was 135 fewer cases compared to the previous week. To date, 19,317 flu cases have been reported this season.

"Influenza appears to be declining, but people should continue getting vaccinated as the flu could last until April or May," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "The vaccine is safe and effective and the best tool we have to prevent influenza."

County health officials and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year, especially in demographics with a heightened risk of serious complications, such as children, people age 65 or older, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and lung disease.

The flu shot is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies. Visit www.sdiz.org or call 211 San Diego for a list of locations offering the vaccine.

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City News Service contributed to this report.