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Posted by: thepinetree on 02/10/2014 03:21 PM Updated by: thepinetree on 02/10/2014 03:24 PM
Expires: 01/01/2019 12:00 AM

Two Confirmed Flu Deaths of Calaveras County Residents

San Andreas, CA...Calaveras Public Health Services has received confirmation of two influenza-related deaths of Calaveras County residents this flu season. “The residents were both under 65 years of age and were reported to the Department today,” stated Dr. Dean Kelaita, County Health Officer. “Both residents had been hospitalized out of county.” “One of the deaths was confirmed as the H1N1 flu strain,” continued Dr. Kelaita...

Flu deaths continue to increase in California. The current number of confirmed flu related deaths in the state is 202 cases, four of which were pediatric cases. Other cases are under investigation pending test results to confirm a link to flu. This is double the number of state flu related deaths during the entire flu season last year. These are the first deaths in Calaveras County residents to be reported so far this season.

Different strains of flu are present. The dominant flu strain this year is H1N1. H1N1 often infects children, young and middle age adults. H1N1 is included in the flu vaccine being offered this year. Those at highest risk of complications from H1N1 are infants, children, pregnant women and anyone with other chronic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and other conditions that compromise the immune system. Others at risk of flu complications from other strains include seniors. Persons in the high risk groups showing flu conditions should contact their medical provider.

“The best form of prevention is still influenza vaccine,” stated Dr. Kelaita. “It is not too late to receive the vaccine.” It takes about two weeks for the body to develop immunity. If you and your family have not received the vaccine now is the time to get it. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get flu vaccine to protect themselves and others in the community. Dr. Kelaita also urges residents to follow other every day preventive actions. Wash hands thoroughly and often. Cover coughs and sneezes. Stay away from others if you are ill – stay home from work or school. Most importantly, get a flu vaccine.

Flu vaccine is available through medical providers, pharmacies and Public Health for everyone 6 months of age and older. Public Health offers vaccine every Monday from 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM and every Thursday from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM at 700 Mountain Ranch Road, San Andreas. There is a monthly immunization clinic on the third Tuesday of each month in Valley Springs at the United Methodist Church from 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM. No appointment is necessary for flu and immunization clinics. There is a $16 charge for vaccine. Medicare can be billed. No one is denied vaccine because of inability to pay. For more information, contact Public Health at 209.754.6460 or visit the website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com.

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