San Diego County logs 11 flu deaths and 516 hospitalizations
Two pediatric deaths have been confirmed this month as weekly surveillance data shows a sharp rise in positive tests among children.
By Nadia Singh ·
San Diego County health officials confirmed two pediatric deaths from influenza-related causes on Wednesday. The season now totals 11 deaths and 516 hospitalizations. These figures mark a sharp increase compared to the same period last year, which recorded two deaths and 86 hospitalizations.
The two children who died this month were an 11-year-old previously healthy patient and a 6-month-old with complex medical conditions. Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, the county public health officer, noted the emotional weight of the losses. He stated, 'As a father myself, hearing about the deaths of two children is especially difficult and underscores the importance of prevention.'
Weekly Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report data indicates a surge in positive influenza tests. The increase is most pronounced among children between the ages of 5 and 17. Local and national health agencies recommend vaccination for everyone 6 months and older.
Health experts emphasize that the body requires approximately two weeks to build immunity after vaccination. A county statement advised residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible, particularly those with underlying health conditions. Dr. Pia Pannaraj, an infectious disease specialist at Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, spoke to the severity of cases in the hospital.
Dr. Pannaraj said, 'Every day in our hospital, we see how swiftly severe infections can progress in children. Our entire care team is heartbroken by the loss of these two young lives.' She added that keeping children vaccinated is the single best step to shield them from life-threatening illness.
Physicians listed specific steps to reduce transmission, including frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with sick individuals. They also recommended covering coughs and sneezes. People who are ill should stay home and maintain physical distance until symptoms improve and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication, according to Scripps.
Scripps Health urged residents to seek urgent care for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest or abdominal pain, confusion, or seizures. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, urgent care centers, hospitals, and clinics. County public health clinics also provide vaccinations for uninsured residents, with appointments available through the My Turn website.
