The Long Beach city health officer has confirmed the first influenza-associated death in an individual less than 65 years of age in Long Beach during the 2017-2018 flu season. The individual was in their 30s and had underlying health conditions, officials said.
“This death is a sober reminder that flu can cause serious illness,” said Anissa Davis, MD, MPH, Long Beach city health officer. “The Long Beach Health Department continues to recommend that all individuals six months of age and older get their flu vaccine. Getting the flu vaccine can prevent people from getting sick or may lessen the severity of symptoms for those who become ill.”
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported 74 cases of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated deaths among patients under 65 years of age to date during this flu season. Surveillance conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the primary flu strain this season is influenza A (H3N2), which has been associated with higher rates of hospitalizations and deaths in persons 65 years and older and young children.
The CDC recommends flu vaccine for everyone over six months of age, especially those at greatest risk for complications and those who live with or care for these individuals:
• Pregnant women
• Children younger than 5 years of age
• Adults 65 years and older.
• People with weakened immune systems
• Those with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease or conditions affecting the nervous system
• People who are overweight or obese
• Those working or living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
• Healthcare personnel
• Childcare workers
Symptoms of flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. In addition to getting the flu vaccine, practicing good hygiene such as washing hands, covering one’s cough and staying home when sick can prevent spreading illness, health officials said.
The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services continues to vaccinate residents during the flu season. For more information, please visit http://bit.ly/2lmwZQP.
