San Diego Veteran Survives Flu After Weeks In ICU

SAN DIEGO, CA -- A San Diego County veteran who was admitted into the intensive care unit after catching the flu was finally released from the hospital. NBC reported Shawn Burrough was released Tuesday after 43 days in the hospital.

"It was hard every day," Burrough, who served in the U.S. Navy, told NBC. "They had me written off. Now, that I'm back, it's 'You're looking good.'"

Burrough was admitted into the hospital on New Year's Day after contracting the flu. The news devastated the community, who rallied behind the father of four and the sole provider of his family. A youcaring.com fundraising page created for the family raised more than $20,000.

The news of Burrough's diagnosis comes amid a growing flu epidemic this season. In California, more than 150 people under the age of 65 have died from the flu.

Burrough told NBC that he now regrets not getting the flu shot.

"When you come that close to death, it puts things into perspective," Burrough told NBC.

Burrough still has to get physical therapy, but he is thankful to be healthy again. He said he learned to take "one thing at a time."

"Don't rush (in life)," Burrough said. "Enjoy the day."

San Diego health officials are encouraging the public to get the flu shot if they haven't done so already. They also recommend:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm
• Stay away from sick people whenever possible
• Stay home when you are sick

--Photo courtesy of Burrough family/YouCaring.com

Also See:

Flu Sends San Diego Veteran To ICU

Flu Deaths Reach New High In San Diego County