Flu Persists In San Diego County As Summer Approaches

SAN DIEGO, CA — Summer is around the corner, yet influenza continues to spread in San Diego County.

The county confirmed 195 flu cases last week, a figure similar to flu totals reported in recent weeks and far more than the sums reported at this time in previous seasons, according to the County Health and Human Services Agency.

During the same week last year, the county confirmed five flu cases, according to the Health and Human Services Agency. There was an average of 18 flu cases during the same period over the past five seasons.

There have been 3,675 total flu cases and seven flu-related deaths this flu season.

During the 2020-2021 flu season, a total of 848 flu cases and two deaths were reported in the San Diego region. More than 20,700 flu cases and 108 deaths were reported during the 2019-2020 flu season.

"Influenza isn't easing up," said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, the county's deputy public health officer. "The same precautions we take for COVID-19 work for the flu, too. And it's not too late this season to get your flu shot."

The flu shot is recommended for nearly everyone 6 months and older, especially people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, people 65 years and older, and people who live with or care for others who are at higher risk. The vaccine is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies.