The County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department confirmed Tuesday the first flu-related death this flu season has been reported in San Luis Obispo County.
Public health says a man over the age of 60 has died of complications related to influenza infection.
Health officials say it is not known if this patient had been vaccinated against the flu this season or if he previously had any underlying health risks.
The California Department of Public Health reports there have been 70 deaths across the state from the flu since October, and that flu activity continues to increase.
While influenza type B is the most common flu strain detected across the state, type A is also circulating. The San Luis Obispo County resident was infected with type A.
To protect yourself, SLO County Public Health recommends:
• Get a flu shot (everyone over six months of age
• Wash hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Stay home when sick
You can get your flu shot from your healthcare provider, at many local pharmacies, or at Public Health Department clinics.
