San Diego County health officials are urging parents to vaccinate children and teens against influenza as flu season peaks. This call to action follows the tragic deaths of three unvaccinated teenagers.
“These recent flu deaths among our youth are tragic and concerning as we head into what historically is the peak of flu season,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, interim public health officer. “The flu vaccine is the best protection against getting seriously sick and preventing death. This has been a particularly long and difficult flu season compared to recent years, and it’s not over yet.”
Currently, nearly 80% of children and teens aged 5 to 17 in the county remain unvaccinated. Health officials emphasize that the flu vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness or death. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get vaccinated annually. It’s important to note that flu and COVID-19 vaccines are not interchangeable, as each protects against a different virus.
Alongside vaccination, health officials recommend other preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks in indoor settings, and staying home when ill. Influenza can be especially dangerous for at-risk groups, including the elderly, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
Insurance typically covers flu vaccines, and doctors’ offices and pharmacies offer them. The county’s six public health centers and local community clinics offer vaccinations to those without insurance. To locate a nearby flu vaccination site, visit the county’s Flu Vaccine Locations page at myturn.ca.gov or call 2-1-1 San Diego.
This flu season has claimed the lives of 73 people in the county, most aged 50 and older. Health officials urge the public to protect themselves and their families proactively.