LA County Confirms 1st Flu Death of Season

The victim was a San Fernando Valley woman with underlying medical conditions, authorities said.

Authorities on Friday confirmed the first influenza death of the 2013-2014 flu season in Los Angeles County.

The victim was a San Fernando Valley woman with underlying medical conditions, the Los Angeles County Health Officer said. Her name was not released.

Health authorities said this death highlights the importance of the flu vaccine.

“The Department of Public Health encourages everyone 6 months of age and older to get their flu vaccination now,” said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, the director of the LA County Department of Public Health. "The nasal spray flu vaccine is approved for use in healthy people ages 2 through 29 who are not pregnant. Practice basic hygiene, too, such as hand-washing, to prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory diseases."

Although all residents older than six months are urged to get vaccinated, Fielding said it was particularly important for some groups of people, including:

  • pregnant women;
  • children under 5;
  • adults 50 and older;
  • anyone with chronic medical conditions;
  • people who live or work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities;
  • health care workers; and
  • day care employees.

Click here to find locations where flu vaccinations are currently available, or call the LA County Information Line at 211 from any landline or cell phone in the county.


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