Fresno County has had its first Influenza-associated deaths in the 2023-2024 season.
The Fresno County Department of Public Health announced the deaths on Thursday.
Driving the news: According to the department, the first person who died was an elderly individual who had influenza type A infection.
- That was followed by three additional confirmed deaths related to the flu.
- The county also said a fifth death is pending.
- So far there have been 143 influenza-associated deaths of 16-64-year-olds nationwide. There have also been 14 influenza-associated pediatric deaths.
What they’re saying: The Fresno County Department of Public Health is encouraging everyone to get vaccinated for the flu, especially those who are at higher risk of more serious outcomes.
- That includes seniors, children under five, pregnant women and people with conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
- “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the friends and families of these individuals,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, Interim Health Officer. “With respiratory infections increasing this time of the year, it is more important than ever for people to get a flu vaccine, as well as an updated COVID-19 vaccine, if they have not already done so.”
