News release
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is strongly encouraging everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against influenza and take steps to prevent its spread as flu activity increases across Los Angeles County, according to a news release from the department.
Getting a flu vaccine and practicing everyday hygiene and prevention measures remain the most effective ways to reduce the spread of flu and prevent serious illness, the release said.
Although anyone can become seriously ill from the flu, those at highest risk for complications include children younger than 5 years, adults 65 years and older, pregnant people, and individuals who are immunocompromised or have underlying health conditions.
Recent surveillance data show increasing flu activity in Los Angeles County. For the week ending Jan. 24, Sentinel Laboratories reported 17.1% of specimens were positive for flu. This is up from 11% the week prior. Emergency department visits for influenza-like illness also rose to 7.7%, compared to 6.4% the week prior, and flu-related hospitalizations rose from 222 to 261. Flu activity is expected to remain elevated in the coming weeks, the release said.
Public Health recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. This year’s flu vaccine remains effective at generating an immune response and preventing hospitalization, even against the new subclade K influenza virus, the release said.
“Flu activity is expected to continue to increase across Los Angeles County, and while many people are already vaccinated, some may still not be protected,” Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer, said in the release. “Flu vaccination is the most effective way to reduce your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from infection, for yourself, your loved ones, and your community. However, even simple steps like washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying away from others when sick can make a big difference in protecting those most at risk for severe illness.”
People at higher risk for complications from the flu should seek medical care for testing and treatment as soon as they begin to feel ill, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated, the release said. High-risk groups include children under 5 years old, adults 65 years and older, pregnant people, and individuals with conditions such as asthma, chronic lung or heart disease, diabetes, or overweight with a body mass index greater than 40.
Prescription anti-viral medications, like oseltamivir (available generically or under the tradename Tamiflu) and baloxavir (available under the tradename Xofluza), can shorten the duration of the flu and can reduce the risk of complications or death, the release said. These medications work best when taken within 48 hours of becoming sick but may still be beneficial if used later in the course of illness.
For more information visit ph.lacounty.gov/fluvaccine.
