The flu is here and it’s hitting San Diegans hard.
That’s why today, County health officials urged the public to get vaccinated to avoid getting sick.
Last week, there was a big jump in the number of cases reported by the medical community. A total of 563 lab-confirmed flu cases were reported last week, as well as one death.
The numbers reported this week are even higher and more flu deaths have occurred.
Five additional flu deaths were reported to the County Health and Human Services Agency, bringing this season’s total to 10.
Also, nearly 1,550 new flu cases were reported this week. To date, a total of 3,195 flu cases have been reported this season.
“The number of flu cases that are being reported is very worrisome. We urge the public to get vaccinated against the flu,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer.
Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications from influenza. They include:
In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:
The flu vaccine is available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies. If you don’t have medical insurance, you can go to a County public health center to get vaccinated. For a list of locations, visit www.sdiz.org or call 2-1-1.