San Bernardino County, CA, February 3, 2014 – As flu activity increases statewide; the number of flu-related deaths in San Bernardino County has risen to 16 in the past three weeks–a sharp rise from the 2012-2013 season in which only five flu-related deaths were confirmed.
While the majority of fatalities happened with individuals between the ages of 40-59, scattered throughout the County, the youngest victim was just 29.
The County Department of Public Health reports that 13 of the victims were infected with the strain that caused the 2009-2010 H1N1 pandemic, which killed 45 people.
Health officials recommend flu vaccinations every season for those six months and older; infants are among those at highest risk, along with the elderly, pregnant women, and those with other health conditions.
All of the currently available vaccines protect against the 2009 H1N1 strain, and are available in Big Bear at CVS and Walgreens.
People who are already ill should limit contact with others and cover their noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing.
