2 Flu-Related Deaths Reported in Fresno County

 

FRESNO, CA (KMJ) – The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) has confirmed two influenza-associated deaths in Fresno County.

Health officials said on Friday that it was a man and a woman under the age of 65 who died from influenza-associated illnesses.

“The first influenza related deaths have occurred in Fresno County. This is a somber reminder that we all must do everything we can to assure that influenza does not spread within our County. Protect yourself. It is never too late to vaccinate,” says Dr. Sara Goldgraben, Fresno County Public Health Officer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday reported the latest flu numbers, estimating 6 million Americans or more have already gotten sick from flu this season.

The CDC says the flu strain causing the most illness is a somewhat milder virus that tends not to cause as many hospitalizations and deaths.

Last week, flu was reported to be widespread in 30 states, up from 24 the week before.

Flu usually takes off after Christmas and peaks around February, according to the CDC.