Flu Season Ramps Up Early: 2 Deaths Reported In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO — Health officials urged residents Wednesday to get a flu shot soon as flu cases are on pace with the 2017-18 season, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 350 people in San Diego County.

Two people have died in the county and 235 cases of the virus have been confirmed by health officials since the current flu season began. The county tracks flu activity year-round during each flu season, which corresponds with the county's fiscal year from July 1 to June 30.

A total of 77 people died from the flu last season, whereas the 2017-18 flu season resulted in 343 flu-related deaths – the most since the county began tracking flu data nearly 20 years ago.

At this time last year, the county's Health and Human Services Agency had not confirmed a flu-related death and 67 flu cases had been confirmed.

This season's first flu death was confirmed in August. In each of the last two years, the county's first flu death was confirmed in October.

Related: 1st Flu Death Of 2019-20 Flu Season Confirmed In San Diego County

Because of the early start to flu season, health officials urged residents to get vaccinated and avoid infecting others.

"Based on what was seen in the Southern Hemisphere during last year's flu season, earlier deaths reported this year and the increased number of lab-confirmed flu cases reported to date, we could anticipate that this season may be as severe as two years ago," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer.

"However, we just don't know until time has passed. That is why it's important to get the flu shot."

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.

"People should get vaccinated now to avoid getting sick and infecting others," Wooten added. "The vaccine is safe and effective and is available throughout the region."

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.

City News Service contributed to this report.