Denton County Public Health (DCPH) confirms the first influenza-associated death, an adult in Denton County, of the 2019-2020 flu season.
As per usual to protect confidentiality, no further identifying information will be released about the patient.
"Announcing the first flu death of this season in Denton County is incredibly difficult. Flu activity remains high in Denton County, and we want to remind residents to receive their flu vaccine to best protect themselves and others," states Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist.
In their most recent influenza surveillance report, Denton County health officials said flu activity in the county was high for the week ending Dec. 28, 2019. In that week, 264 positive flu tests and 18 hospitalizations were reported by sentinel providers.
For the season, the county has reported 7,254 influenza tests with 1,321 cases confirmed. The vast majority, 1,127 cases, were positive for Type B.
According to the CDC, the flu is widespread throughout the United States with the exception of four states: North Dakota, Kansas, Vermont and Maine.
Weekly Denton County flu surveillance reports and additional information can be found at dentoncounty.gov/flu. Visit cdc.gov/flu for details about symptoms, treatment, and prevention, and search vaccinefinder.org to find the nearest vaccine in your neighborhood.
TIPS FOR AVOIDING FLU
- Get a flu vaccine every season, especially people with high risk
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- If you're experiencing flu symptoms, visit your doctor and begin taking antiviral medications to help you recover more quickly
WHAT IS FLU?
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, those age 65 and older or young children, or those with underlying medical conditions, are at higher risk for flu complications. There are two main types of flu, Flu A and Flu B, that are generally responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.
Learn more about the flu virus here from the CDC.
