A 65-year-old man from East County is the first flu death reported in San Diego County this season, the County Human Services and Health Agency announced today.
The man, who was also diagnosed with the new coronavirus, died Jan. 13, had underlying medical conditions and had been vaccinated against the flu.
“Flu deaths are very unfortunate, but they happen every flu season,” said Wilma Wooten, MD, MPH, county public health officer. “Although flu activity has been very low this season, San Diegans should be vaccinated against the flu to prevent the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.”
As of January 30, 2021, there have been 39 people diagnosed with influenza and COVID-19 at the same time.
To date, 677 cases of influenza have been reported in the region, compared to 11,863 cases recorded at the same time last year. A total of 108 people died from the flu last season.
Your best shot against the flu
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months or older get a flu shot every year. Immunity takes about two weeks to develop.
Influenza vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of developing serious complications from the flu. They include:
- People with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and lung disease, even if symptoms are controlled
- Pregnant woman
- People 65 years or older
- People who live or care for other people at higher risk
In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:
- Stay away from sick people
- Wash your hands well and often
- Use hand sanitizers
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Clean commonly touched surfaces
- If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with other people
The flu vaccine is available at medical offices and retail pharmacies. If you do not have health insurance, you can go to a county public health center to get vaccinated. For a list of locations, visit the county flu website or call 211 San Diego.