The 65-year-old East County man is the first flu death to be reported 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. He had underlying medical conditions and was vaccinated against flu.
“Influenza deaths are very unfortunate, but occur every flu season,” said Wilma Wooten, managing director, MPH, public health officer. “While flu activity has been very low this season, San Diegans needs to be vaccinated against the flu to prevent getting flu and COVID-19 at the same time.”
Until January 30, 2021, 39 people were simultaneously diagnosed with influenza and COVID-19.
To date, 677 flu cases have been reported in the region, compared to 11,863 cases registered in the same year last year. A total of 108 people died of the flu last season.
Your best shot against flu
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year. It takes about two weeks before immunity develops.
Flu vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of developing serious complications due to flu. These include:
- People with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and lung disease, even if the symptoms are under control
- Expectant women
- People 65 and older
- People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk
In addition to being vaccinated, people also need to do the following to get sick:
- Stay away from sick people
- Wash hands thoroughly and regularly
- Use hand cleaners
- Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth
- Clean frequently affected surfaces
- If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others
The flu vaccine is available at doctor’s offices and retail pharmacies. If you do not have medical insurance, you can go to a public health center in the province to be vaccinated. Visit the county’s flu website for a list of locations or call 211 San Diego.