Placer County Public Health reports first pediatric flu death this season – YubaNet

AUBURN, Calif. – Placer County Public Health has been notified that a Placer County child under the age of 5 recently died of complications from the flu, the first such pediatric death in the county this season. The child had underlying health conditions, which did not include COVID-19 or RSV.

“We send our condolences to the family in this tragedy,” said Acting Chief Health Officer and Director of Health and Social Services Dr Rob Oldham. “It’s not too late to get your flu shot, and this year’s vaccine looks like a good match for the circulating strains.”

In the 2022-2023 flu season so far, 14 Placer residents have died from the flu. Influenza activity has decreased in Northern California and Placer County since peaking in December, but some activity may continue into May.

Although the flu shot is recommended annually for anyone 6 months of age and older, it is especially important for young children, pregnant women, adults 65 and older, and people with long-term health conditions. duration.

It is also important to adopt good health habits to limit the spread of the flu. People should stay home when they are sick; always cover coughs and sneezes; wash hands with soap and water; and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, chills and fatigue. Flu symptoms can be similar to early symptoms of COVID-19, so testing is recommended. Providers can prescribe antiviral medications that reduce the severity and duration of illness. Antibiotics are not effective against the flu.

Most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and Medicare, cover free flu shots from your health care provider. Many pharmacies also offer free or low-cost vaccines. To find a place to get your flu shot, visit vaccinefinder.org.

Public Health will offer both COVID-19 and flu vaccines to its February Clinics. For more information on influenza, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s influenza website at cdc.gov/flu.