California Passes 200 Flu Deaths This Season
The total statewide was 202 as of Feb. 7, and 41 other deaths are under investigation but not yet confirmed as influenza-related. During the entire 2012-2013 flu season, there were 106 flu deaths in California.
Flu deaths in California rose to 202 as of Feb. 7, Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health and state health officer, announced. That number was 56 more than the department's previous report, and CDPH reports another 41 deaths currently are under investigation but not yet confirmed as influenza-related. Four of the 202 are pediatric deaths.
CDPH provided a breakdown by jurisdiction; high fatality totals have occurred in Fresno (15), Los Angeles (26), Sacramento (21), San Bernardino (15), and San Diego (17).
California's flu deaths total during the entire 2012-2013 influenza season was 106. The department says people at highest risk -- the elderly, pregnant women, infants, or those with other health conditions -- who show flu symptoms should contact their physician immediately in order to get the most effective treatment. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. There is no shortage of flu vaccine.