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Flu deaths in San Diego County quadruple since this time last year

Posted at 3:15 PM, Nov 22, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-22 18:19:14-05

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- The number of flu-related deaths in San Diego County has quadrupled compared to this time last flu season, according to County health officials.

On Veterans Day, a 92-year-old man died from the flu, bringing the total number of flu-related deaths in the county to four so far this season.

A total of 574 people have been infected with the flu compared to 174 at this time last year.

“The number of flu deaths and cases being reported this year continues to outpace the totals from the last season,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “The flu can be deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. The best protection against the flu is getting vaccinated.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone at least 6 months and older get the flu shot annually.

The CDC also recommends frequently washing hands, using hand sanitizer, staying away from sick people and cleaning commonly touched surfaces as ways to help prevent catching the flu.