HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.19.23 For Immediate Release_ Public Health Announces First Flu Deaths, Urges Flu VaccinationFrom:Almaguer, Lisa
To:BOS; Cox, Erin; McSpadden, Elaine; Nicholas, Jodi; Putnam, Jodi; Soderstrom, Monica
Cc:York, Danette; Canton, David
Subject:For Immediate Release: Public Health Announces First Flu Deaths, Urges Flu Vaccination
Date:Thursday, January 19, 2023 10:23:48 AM
The following release will be issued shortly…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 19, 2023
Public Health Announces First Flu Deaths, Urges Flu Vaccination
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health (BCPH) is reporting the first two flu-related
deaths for the 2023 flu season. Both residents were over the age of 60 and died due to
complications of influenza. BCPH expresses sincere condolences to friends and family for the loss of
their loved ones. Residents, especially those at increased risk for flu complications, are urged to get
vaccinated against the flu and take other actions to prevent respiratory illnesses.
People who haven’t received their annual flu vaccine are still urged to get one, as flu season can last
through late spring. This year’s flu vaccines are still beneficial as vaccination reduces your risk of
illness, hospitalization, and death.
Residents can get the annual flu vaccine from their healthcare provider or local pharmacy. To locate
a flu vaccination clinic, visit: www.vaccines.gov or myturn.ca.gov/. Residents are encouraged to talk
with their doctor about preventing respiratory illnesses and the importance of vaccinations.
Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age or older, but is particularly important
for those at higher risk of severe influenza, including pregnant women, children under five years of
age, older adults, and people with certain underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity,
asthma, and heart disease. Vaccination of pregnant women also helps to protect infants too young
to be vaccinated.
While California guidance does not require masking except in some specific situations, masking is an
effective way to help protect against Flu, RSV and COVID-19.
In addition to getting a flu vaccine, BCPH recommends 5 tips to protect against winter viruses:
Get Vaccinated, Boosted (and Treated)
Flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines and boosters continue to be your best defense to limit severe
illness and death – and you can get both at the same time.
Stay Home if You're Sick, and Test for Flu & COVID-19
Staying home when you're sick slows the spread of Flu, RSV and COVID-19. If you're sick,
remember to test for Flu and COVID-19 and contact your doctor immediately if you're positive
to discuss treatment options. Treatments work best when started right after symptoms begin.
Keep sick children home from school according to the school’s sick child policy (typically for 24
hours after your child no longer has symptoms, especially a fever).
Wear a Mask
There is no vaccine for RSV, so wearing a mask can significantly slow the spread and protect
babies and young children who do not yet have immunity and are too young to wear a mask
themselves. Wearing a mask in indoor public places is a good way to limit the spread of
germs.
Wash Your Hands
Frequent handwashing, with soap and warm water – for at least 20 seconds, is an easy and
effective way to prevent getting sick and spreading germs.
Cover Your Cough or Sneeze
Remember to cough or sneeze into your elbow, your arm, or a disposable tissue to help
prevent the spread of winter viruses. Just make sure to wash your hands or sanitize and
dispose of your tissue after.
Those who have flu like symptoms should contact their health care provider right away. Symptoms
include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and
fatigue. If you are sick, stay home from work or school until your illness is over.
For more information about the flu, visit: www.buttecounty.net/flu
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Lisa Almaguer
Public Information Officer
BUTTE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH
202 Mira Loma Drive | Oroville, CA 95965
T: 530.552.4000 | D: 530.552.4041
“Nationally Accredited, 09/13/17”
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