County sees increase in flu cases over last season
Thursday, Jan. 2—
The flu rate in San Diego County is up about 150 percent compared to last flu season, and infections might be peaking early, the county Health and Human Services Agency reported today.
Since July 1, 357 flu cases have been reported to the county agency, compared to 216 during the same period the previous year.
More than 150 cases were diagnosed last week, double the number of the prior week.
Around 5,300 influenza cases were diagnosed in San Diego County during last flu season, and 65 people died — most of them elderly and with underlying medical conditions. Many of those sickened said symptoms felt more severe than usual.
No flu-related deaths have been reported this flu season.
Most of the cases diagnosed this season are the H1N1 strain that caused a pandemic a few years ago. The flu vaccine protects against H1N1. Influenza B and last season’s most common strain — H3N2.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months or older get a flu vaccine every year. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop after getting vaccinated.
“The flu season typically lasts through April,” Wooten said. “If you haven’t gotten your shot this season, you should get vaccinated now to protect yourself and your family.”
The vaccine is available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies.
County public health centers have flu vaccine available for children and adults with no medical insurance. For a list of locations, visit
or call 2-1-1.