This article appeared in The Orange County Register. Read the full story here.
Health officials have confirmed the first flu-related death in Orange County this season of someone younger than 65, the Orange County Health Care Agency reported Monday, Jan. 13.
An adult male in Tustin with underlying health issues died of complications related to the Influenza B infection, a press release issued Monday afternoon stated. No other identifying information, including his exact age, was provided.
County Health Officer Dr. Nicole Quick said the man’s death is “an important reminder” that the flu can cause serious illness, especially for people with underlying health conditions. She recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months be vaccinated annually.
Most health insurers cover flu shots. People without health insurance or a health care provider can get a free flu shot at the county-run Family Health Clinic, 1725 W. 17th St., Santa Ana, every Wednesday from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
For more information, call the county’s Health Referral Line at 800-564-8448, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; or go to ochealthinfo.com/flu