‘Unpredictable’ seasonal flu claims the life of woman in Stanislaus County. What to know
Health officials said Friday that a woman stricken with the seasonal flu has died in Stanislaus County.
The county Health Services Agency said in a news release that it’s the first flu-related death this year among people younger than 65. No other details were released due to privacy policies.
“We extend our condolences to the family of the woman who passed away from flu,” said Dr. Thea Papasozomenos, county public health officer. “This is a sobering reminder that flu is unpredictable and can be life-threatening.”
Hospitals in the region are caring for many patients with respiratory illnesses, including the flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, which can be dangerous for infants and older adults.
The seasonal flu often spreads in late fall in the Northern San Joaquin Valley and may peak in January or February. The virus spreads easily from person to person, resulting in mild to severe symptoms.
The symptoms of flu are fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches and fatigue. According to the news release, certain groups are more vulnerable, such as young children, adults 65 and older, pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.
County health officials encourage residents to consider a flu shot and an updated COVID-19 vaccination. Other precautions against the contagious illness are frequent hand-washing with soap and water, and staying home if you’re sick to keep from spreading the virus to other people.
Flu vaccines are available from health care providers, pharmacies and health clinics.
More information about the seasonal flu and vaccinations is available at the county Health Services Agency website and vaccinefinder.org.
