First Flu Death In Pierce County Of 2018-19 Season

BONNEY LAKE, WA - Pierce County recorded the first confirmed influenza-related death of the 2018-19 season this week. The victim, a man in his 40s, had prior health complications that increased his risk of death, according to health officials.

Flu cases in Pierce County have risen over the past month, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. About 2-1/2 percent of hospital visits are due to flu, up from near zero in mid-September.

Five people have been admitted to local hospitals since mid-September due to complications of flu. The patients range in age from teens to 60s.

Pierce County health officials are urging local residents to get vaccinated before flu season worsens.

“This death is a reminder of the importance of early vaccination, especially for those with diabetes, obesity, asthma, and other risk factors for influenza-associated complications,” said public health nurse Matthew Rollosson said in a press release. "Immunization against influenza not only protects you, it also reduces the risk of influenza in the community."

The 2017-18 season was bad in Pierce County with 31 deaths. But 50 people died the season before that, which is more than the seasons between 2013 and 2015 combined.

Flu vaccines are available now at pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. This year, the nasal spray form of the vaccine has been approved by the Centers for Disease Control. Learn more about flu viruses circulating this season and get more information about vaccines here.

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