Four more dead from flu

Four county residents have recently died from complications due to influenza, the Imperial County Public Health Department announced Friday.

The individuals were a young adult, two middle-aged adults and one senior. Three of the individuals had underlying health conditions, the

Health Department said.

These bring the total number of flu deaths in Imperial County this flu season to five, matching the total from the 2018-19 season. Previously, the department reported the death of a toddler in December.

Officials said it is unknown if any of the individuals had been vaccinated because that information was not reported to the Health Department.

“Our hearts go out to the families that have been affected by these recent deaths due to influenza,” said Dr. Stephen Munday, county health officer. “It is important to remember that flu season is not over and it is not too late to get a flu shot.”

All persons 6 months of age and older, including health-care personnel, should receive a flu shot now if they have not yet received one this flu season, the Health Department said. Flu continues to circulate at higher levels in Imperial County and flu activity is widespread statewide.

According to the California Department of Public Health, since Sept. 29, when the flu season started, there have been 266 influenza-related deaths reported in California.

Measures of influenza activity monitored by CDPH are showing flu season started earlier in California than in recent years. This flu season, the county’s respiratory surveillance program has identified a significantly higher number of confirmed flu cases in both outpatient and hospital settings than last year.

Flu shots are available at the Public Health Department on a walk-in basis during regular hours for $5.

In addition, flu vaccine is available with local physicians, community clinics including Clinicas de Salud del Pueblo Inc. and local pharmacies.

Individuals who wish to receive the flu shot from their doctor will need to contact their healthcare provider directly about the availability of flu vaccine.

For more information regarding the flu vaccine, please contact the Imperial County Public Health Department’s Immunization Program at (442) 2651394 or send an email to jovanaaraujo@co.imperial.ca.us.

To find a flu shot, visit Health Map Vaccine Finder.