San Diego Flu Season: 10-Year-Old Dies, Death Toll Over 200

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA – Flu deaths continue to spike, now claiming over 200 lives, including two children, in San Diego County. One of 32 new flu-related deaths reported in the region last week included a 10-year-old boy, bringing this season's total to 206, according to data released Wednesday.

The boy died on Jan. 25 after being hospitalized with influenza A/H3, according to the county Health and Human Services Agency. He was not vaccinated for the flu and had underlying medical conditions.

This is the second child to die with flu complications this season in San Diego. A 1-year-old died from the flu on New Year's Eve.

"The death of a child because of influenza is very unfortunate," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "Our condolences go out to the family for their tragic loss."

People ages 1 to 101 have died from the flu this season in San Diego County. Health officials said 26 of the people who died – 13 percent – were under 65 years old, which are the only deaths public health agencies are required to report in California. The county discloses all flu deaths to the public.

At this time last season, there were 33 flu-related deaths. Health officials attribute the high number of deaths reported this year in part to better testing, surveillance and reporting systems.

While flu-related deaths rose in the region last week, new lab-confirmed cases and emergency room visits continued to decline. The number of lab-confirmed cases decreased from 1,169 to 601, while emergency department visits by people with flu-like symptoms dropped from 9 percent of all visits to 6 percent.

The total number of cases to date stands at 14,289, compared to 2,398 at the same time last year, according to county data.

"The San Diego region's flu season had a peak in late December, but a second peak could occur," Wooten said. "People still should continue to get vaccinated, since the flu season often lasts through the end of March, early April, or even later."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated. The vaccine is safe and effective. It takes two weeks for immunity to develop, health officials said.

Vaccinations are particularly important for people with chronic medical conditions, as well as those who are elderly, pregnant, or care for or live with others at high risk.

In addition to getting vaccinated, health officials said people should wash their hands, use hand sanitizers, avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth, clean commonly touched surfaces, and stay away from sick people.

Vaccines are available at doctors' offices and pharmacies throughout the county. People without health insurance can go to county public health centers to get vaccinated. For a list of locations, visit sdiz.org or call 211.

Previous:

• 174 Dead From Flu In San Diego County
• San Diego Flu Season: Record Flu Deaths Reported In Region
• Baby Dies From Flu In San Diego County

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