SACRAMENTO, CA - The California Department of Public Health has announced the first confirmed influenza death for the 2014-2015 season.
The fatality is of an adult from southern California and marks the first death from influenza of a person under the age of 65.
“Flu activity is beginning to increase statewide, including reports of hospitalizations and severe disease,” said Dr. Ron Chapman, director of CDPH. “We are early on in what could be a severe flu season, and I encourage everyone who has not yet gotten a flu vaccination to do so. The influenza vaccine remains the most effective way to protect yourself from the flu.”
According to the CDPH, Influenza is already widespread in 43 other states and there have been 21 pediatric influenza deaths nationwide so far this influenza season.
Health officials say that in addition to getting vaccinated, it's important to practice good hand washing and other good health habits. People who are ill should take actions to stop the spread of germs such as:
• While sick, stay home and limit contact with others
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based rub
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
Health officials caution those at highest risk of severe influenza are the elderly, pregnant women, infants, or people with other health conditions.
If you show symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches or fatigue, you are urged to contact your physician.
