Third Teen Flu Death Recorded This Season In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Three teens have died from the flu this season in San Diego County, the county's public health department announced Thursday.

All of the deaths happened between end of December and in January, according to Fernanda Lopez, a spokesperson for the county's Health and Human Services Agency. A 15-year-old boy from the inland North County died Dec. 31 of influenza A. A 17-year-old girl from inland North County died Jan. 5 from influenza A. A 14-year-old girl from South County died Jan. 22 from influenza B.

None of the teens were vaccinated.

County public health officials urged families to get the flu vaccine. Nearly 80% of 5- to 17-year-olds in the county have not received this season's vaccine.

"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. I highly encourage the flu vaccine, it's not too late."

In total, 73 people have died from the flu this flu season in the county. Most were people 50 years and older.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year.

The vaccine is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance. People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the county's six public health centers or a local community clinic.