RivCo Confirms First Flu-Related Death Of The Season

MURRIETA, CA — The first flu-related death in Riverside County was reported on Thursday, prompting health officials to urge residents to get vaccinated ahead of the holiday travel period.

The person, an unvaccinated resident over the age of 65 from Western Riverside County, died recently, according to Riverside University Health System–Public Health (RUHS–PH).

“This death is a sad reminder of the dangers that influenza can pose, especially among older adults and those with underlying conditions, and the impact it can then have on families who suffer the loss,” Riverside County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky said in a statement. “To protect our loved ones, it is important to make sure those at higher risk don’t delay getting a flu shot.”

Flu activity in Riverside County remains low based on emergency department visits, hospitalizations and wastewater monitoring. Still, health officials warn that cases could begin to climb through Thanksgiving and the winter holidays. The flu season generally runs from October through April.

Influenza can be especially dangerous for adults over 65, young children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems and those with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Even healthy individuals can experience severe or prolonged illness, leading to missed work, school absences and unexpected medical costs.

Vaccination remains the best defense, officials emphasized. Flu shots can reduce complications, shorten the duration of illness and help prevent transmission during the busy holiday season.

“Now is the perfect time to protect against influenza,” Chevinsky said. “Vaccination is safe and flu vaccines are widely available. It is a simple step we all can do to protect those we care about as the holiday season ramps up.”

The California Department of Public Health recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine each year.

Health officials also encouraged residents to take preventive steps to protect against flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses: wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, stay home when sick, consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, improve ventilation and disinfect commonly touched surfaces. Those at higher risk who become ill are urged to get tested and consult a healthcare provider about treatment options.

Flu vaccines are available through healthcare providers and many local pharmacies. Public Health vaccination clinic locations can be found on the RUHS–PH website, along with the county’s respiratory virus dashboard.