First influenza-related death of the year reported in Orange County

County of Orange Reports First Influenza-Related Death of Season

(Santa Ana, CA) – The County of Orange Health Care Agency has confirmed the County’s first influenza-related death this season. A previously-healthy male toddler died of complications related to influenza infection this week. Public Health Laboratory testing confirmed that he was infected with influenza A virus.

“This is an important reminder that influenza can cause serious illness, particularly in the very young,” County Health Officer Dr. Eric Handler said. “Everyone over six months of age should be vaccinated each year.”

Influenza is a seasonal contagious respiratory illness, which can be caused by influenza A or B viruses. Flu symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills and fatigue. Flu illness can be severe, leading to missed school or work, hospitalization and even death.

Flu virus is mainly spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes. The best way to protect against both influenza A and B viruses is by getting vaccinated each year. Vaccinations are recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, and are especially important for infants, young children, pregnant women, adults over 50 and those with chronic medical conditions. Close contacts and caregivers of these high-risk people should also be vaccinated.

Most insurance plans including Medi-Cal and Medicare cover flu vaccination from your health care provider. In addition, many clinics and pharmacies offer no-cost or low-cost flu shots throughout Orange County. The Health Care Agency will be offering free seasonal influenza vaccinations for people six months of age and older who do not have a medical provider or health insurance coverage.

Vaccinations are available on a walk-in basis on the following days and times:

Every Wednesday in November, 2017
8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
Public Health Clinic, 1725 West 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706

Beginning December 1, 2017 Monday – Friday
8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
Public Health Clinic, 1725 West 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706

Remember these important steps to help stop the spread of flu and other germs:

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (or sleeve if you are caught by surprise)
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water (or alcohol-based sanitizer, if not available)
• Stay home if you are sick (at least 24 hours after your fever is gone)

The most current local information, including vaccination locations, is available at www.ochealthinfo.com/flu or by calling the Health Referral Line at 800-564-8448 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.