Flu cases decline for 4th straight week, death toll climbs to 67

County health officials reported three more flu- related deaths Thursday, while confirming that overall flu cases continue to fall. The three residents who died last week ranged in age from

55 to 96 and had additional medical issues. The three deaths bring the county’s flu season death toll to 67 through April 20, according to the county Health and Human Services Agency. The

county recorded 341 flu deaths at this point last season. The county also confirmed 171 flu cases last week, which is down from a revised total of 243 cases the previous week. Countywide

confirmed flu cases have now fallen for four consecutive weeks. The county has confirmed 9,174 flu cases to date this season compared to 20,640 at this point last flu season. “While the

number of flu cases continues to drop, influenza is still making San Diegans sick,” said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county’s public health officer. “People should continue getting vaccinated and

taking other preventative measures to avoid getting the flu.” County health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly advise the annual flu vaccination for

everyone 6 months and older, especially in demographics with a heightened risk of serious complications, such as pregnant women, people older than 65 and people with chronic conditions. Flu

shots are available at doctors’ offices, retail pharmacies, community clinics and the county’s public health centers. Residents also can call 211 or visit the county’s immunization program

website, sdiz.com, for a list of county locations administering free vaccines. _–City News Service_