According to the latest data available, the total number of deaths caused by flu in 2017 has been 68. This includes seven deaths reported in San Diego County in the week ending on 12th March, 2017. The number of casualties in 2017 up until this March has already surpassed the total deaths caused by flu or flu related conditions in 2016. Given the fact more than six weeks remain in the flu season, even more deaths are anticipated and hence all medical administrators are urging for proactive remedial measures instead of seeking treatments after being infected. Urgent Cares are being especially bombarded with flu patients as these clinics remain the most effective centers for treating this illness. Compare this with Emergency Rooms only treating 3% of San Diego’s flu patients.
It’s important to know that there are certain groups of people who are more vulnerable to contract the flu. More evidently, of the 68 dead this year, only three had no underlying medical conditions. Most people affected were above the age of sixty-five and almost everyone was in the range of thirty one to ninety eight years of age. It is evident that middle aged adults, seniors or those with prevailing medical conditions are the most vulnerable. If you are in these target groups, it’s important to stay vigilant this flu season and invest in more medicinal therapies to help boost your immune system, including Vitamin B shots, taking vitamin pill supplements, and regular exercise.
While there has been a significant increase in flu related deaths, it has been coupled by a drop in the number of influenza cases being diagnosed and confirmed by laboratories across the county. Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county public health officer, has said that influenza activity is on the decline but the number of flu-related deaths would be reported in coming days. She has warned people not to be complacent and that everyone should get vaccinated. Dr. Wooten cautions the citizens of San Diego and surrounding areas that the flu season lasts well into April and can also stretch into May.
Going by the health data compiled from all labs across the country, there have been two hundred sixty cases of flu confirmed by the labs for the week ending on 12th of March. The week earlier there were around three hundred twenty-seven cases diagnosed and confirmed.
If you believe you have the flu it is important to get tested ASAP! At Medical Care San Diego we accept walk-ins for flu testing, no waiting around! Come visit us today, we are here to help!