A 65-year-old man from East County is the first reported flu death in San Diego County this season, the County Health and Human Services Agency announced today.
The man, who was also diagnosed with the new coronavirus, died on January 13, had underlying medical conditions and had been vaccinated against the flu.
“Flu deaths are very unfortunate, but they occur every flu season,” said Wilma Wooten, MD, MPH, county public health officer. While 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 were 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.
The best flu vaccine
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all people aged 6 months and over be given an influenza vaccine every year. Immunity lasts about two weeks.
Influenza vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications from the flu. They include:
- People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and lung disease, even if symptoms are under control
- Pregnant women
- People aged 65 and over
- People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk
In addition to vaccination, people should do the following to avoid getting the disease:
- Stay away from sick people
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often
- Use hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Clean frequently touched surfaces
- If you are ill, stay home and avoid contact with others
The flu vaccine is available at doctors’ 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 flu county website or call 211 San Diego.