First Flu Fatality in Tulare County

A Tulare County resident has died from an influenza-related infection. Flu numbers have increased and because the flu can have serious, life threatening effects, including death, everyone should protect themselves and others from contraction and spread of the virus by getting vaccinated.

"With great regret, I must inform the community of this death from influenza," said Dr. Karen Haught, Tulare County health officer. "Public health is our first priority and so I'm strongly encouraging community members to get vaccinated and help prevent the spread of flu."

In order to prevent contraction or spread of the flu:

Get vaccinated every year,

Avoid contact with sick individuals, and stay home when you have symptoms of the flu,

Wash your hands often with soap and water, or an antibacterial hand rub,

Use medications as instructed,

Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Dr. Haught notes the importance of contacting a doctor immediately when you see signs of serious illness, some of which vary depending on age:

Adults may experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, dizziness, confusion, vomiting, and dehydration.

Children may experience hyperventilation or difficulty breathing, vomiting, dehydration, lethargy, irritability and restlessness.

Infants may experience a decreased appetite and dehydration.

Fever returning after the illness has resolved indicates a need for medical care.

Individuals with flu symptoms, particularly those with risk factors such as pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, kidney disease, and children age five and younger should talk to their healthcare providers about antiviral medication.

Everyone over six months of age should receive the flu vaccination, which is available at physicians' offices, local clinics and pharmacies. Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency's (HHSA) immunization program also provides the vaccine.

Log on to http://www.tchhsa.org (under "Health and Wellbeing") or http://www.flu.gov, or call (559) 685-5725 for more information.