Health officials urge flu shots after season’s first influenza death

The state’s health department announced the first influenza-related death of the season earlier this week, serving as a reminder for residents about the importance of getting flu shots.

The death occurred in Santa Clara County.

“I am troubled when the flu turns into loss of life,” said Dr. Karen Smith, the state’s public health officer, in a statement. “It doesn’t have to. That’s why I urge you to get your flu shot. By getting vaccinated, you can keep yourself healthy and stop the virus from spreading to others.”

While flu activity remains sporadic, it peaks from December through April, officials said.

“Now is a good time to be vaccinated before the flu really spreads widely,” she said.

The California Department of Public Health recommends the annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older, including pregnant women.

According to the department, two of this season’s vaccine components, the influenza A (H3N2) and influenza B (Yamagata lineage) strains, have been updated to match the viruses residents are likely to face during the 2015-16 flu season.

This story was originally published November 6, 2015 at 5:15 PM with the headline "Health officials urge flu shots after season’s first influenza death."