The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency reported Wednesday that a 64-year-old man from East County had died as a result of influenza in the region, the third such fatality in the region this year.
According to health officials, the man died on January 7 because of underlying medical issues and because he had not been immunized against the flu. He was not in possession of COVID-19 at the time of his death.
“The deaths caused by influenza are extremely unfortunate. A statement from Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county public health officer, said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the man’s family and friends.”
“Despite the fact that influenza activity is low this season, you can still contract the virus, and it can be very serious. A flu vaccine, which is both safe and effective, should be administered to everyone six months of age and older.
According to the Health and Human Services Administration, emergency department visits for influenza-like illnesses accounted for 2 percent of all visits in the prior week, down from 3 percent the week before.
With 38 additional lab-confirmed cases in the past week, compared to 34 the week before, the number of cases of the flu has remained quite low overall.
In the first five weeks, there have been 1,581 lab-confirmed cases, compared to 702 at the same time last season and an average of 8,775 the previous five years in the same week.
In the previous season, 848 influenza cases were registered in San Diego County, with two deaths among them. In San Diego County, a total of 108 people died as a result of influenza in 2019, with over 20,700 flu cases documented.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States for everyone 6 months of age and older. Flu-related serious illness is more likely to occur in people who have chronic medical illnesses, are pregnant, are over the age of 65, or who live with or care for someone who are at higher risk for a serious illness.
It takes approximately two weeks following immunization for the body to establish immunity to the virus. Dr. offices and retail pharmacies carry the vaccine, which is covered by most medical insurance policies.
In the county, there are six public health centers, as well as a local community clinic, where those who do not have health insurance can get their vaccinations.
To find the nearest flu vaccine location, go to the county’s flu vaccine location page or dial 211 for assistance. Officials from the Department of Health and Human Services advised citizens to do the following:
- Use hand sanitizers frequently
- Completely wash your hands thoroughly after touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Clean frequently touched surfaces
- Avoid contact with others if you are sick.
- Stay at home and avoid contact with others if you are unwell.
Influenza Watch, published every Wednesday throughout flu season by the Health and Human Services Administration (HHSA), examines important influenza indicators and highlights influenza surveillance in the region.